The term “gastroesophageal” refers to the stomach and esophagus. Reflux means to flow back or return. Gastroesophageal reflux is when what’s in your stomach backs up into your esophagus. Gastrophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) is mild acid reflux that occurs at least twice a week, or moderate to severe acid reflux that occurs at least once a week.

Symptoms

The acid causes burning, inflammation and pain on the lining of the esophagus and can eventually lead to permanent damage of the lining. A tightness in the chest may also be felt, and sometimes heartburn can be confused with symptoms of a heart attack. This backward flow of acid is also called reflux when symptoms are brief and intermittent and do not cause ongoing symptoms.

The most common symptom of GERD is heartburn (acid indigestion). It usually feels like a burning chest pain that starts behind your breastbone and moves upward to your neck and throat.

Cause

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) occurs when stomach acid frequently flows back into the tube connecting your mouth and stomach (esophagus). This backwash (acid reflux) can irritate the lining of your esophagus. In most people, GERD doesn’t cause serious complications. But in rare cases, it can lead to serious or even life-threatening health problems.

It happens when the LES is weak or relaxes when it shouldn’t. This lets the stomach's contents flow up into the esophagus

Treatment

Most people can manage the discomfort of GERD with lifestyle changes and over-the-counter medications. But some people with GERD may need stronger medications or surgery to ease symptoms.

Lying down or bending over can also result in heartburn. Many people feel better if they stand upright or take an antacid that clears acid out of the esophagus.

Exercise may make heart disease pain worse, and rest may relieve it. Heartburn pain is less likely to go along with physical activity. But you can’t tell the difference, so seek medical help right away if you have any chest pain.

Clinical Gastroenterology Journal accepts original manuscripts in the form of research articles, review articles, Clinical reviews, commentaries, case reports, perspectives and short communications encompassing all aspects of Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology for publication in open access platform. The editorial office of the journal promises a peer review process for the submitted manuscripts for the quality of publishing.

Regards

Jessica Watson

Managing Editor

Clinical Gastroenterology Journal