What Is GERD?

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) is a chronic condition in which stomach acid flows back up into the esophagus — the tube connecting your mouth to your stomach. This happens when the lower esophageal sphincter (the muscular valve between the esophagus and stomach) does not close properly or opens too often.

Occasional heartburn is common and usually not a concern. But when acid reflux occurs more than twice a week, or causes inflammation or other complications, it is classified as GERD and should be evaluated and treated by a gastroenterologist.

Symptoms

• Heartburn — a burning sensation in the chest, often after eating
• Regurgitation — sour or bitter-tasting acid backing up into the throat or mouth
• Difficulty swallowing
• Chronic cough or sore throat
• Feeling of a lump in the throat
• Chest pain (always seek immediate medical attention for new or severe chest pain)

Why GERD Needs Treatment

Left untreated, chronic acid reflux can lead to serious complications:

• Esophagitis — inflammation of the esophagus that can cause pain and bleeding
• Esophageal stricture — narrowing of the esophagus from scar tissue, making swallowing difficult
• Barrett’s esophagus — precancerous changes in the esophageal lining that require monitoring
• Esophageal cancer — a rare but serious potential consequence of long-standing, untreated GERD

How We Diagnose and Treat GERD

We use a thorough approach to diagnose GERD, including EGD (upper endoscopy) to directly examine the esophagus, and when needed, pH monitoring to measure acid levels. Treatment ranges from lifestyle modifications and medications to, in some cases, procedural interventions. Every treatment plan is tailored to the severity of your condition and your individual needs.