Gastro Esophageal Reflux (GERD)

This a condition in which the food or fluid content of the stomach regurgitates (backs up or refluxes) into the esophagus. This can be due to not proper working of the lower esophageal sphincter, transient lower esophageal sphincter relaxation, The food or fluid caninflame and damage the lining (causes esophagitis) of the esophagus. The regurgitated liquid usually contains acid and pepsin that are produced by the stomach. The refluxed liquid also may contain bile that has backed-up into the stomach from the duodenum. (The duodenum is the first part of the small intestine that attaches to the stomach.) Acid is believed to be the most injurious component of the refluxed liquid. Pepsin and bile also may injure the esophagus.

GERD is a chronic condition. Once it begins, it usually is life-long. If there is injury to the lining of the esophagus (esophagitis) even after the esophagus has healed with treatment.

Proper lifestyle and eating Habits should be a carefully applied in Daily routine otherswise symptoms will be back in short Span.

SYMPTOMS

• Persistent heartburn
• A sour or bitter taste in the mouth.
• Chest pain. This may be a dull, heavy
• discomfort that spreads across the chest
• Hoarseness
• Trouble swallowing.
• A feeling that you have something stuck in your throatA cough.
• Having extra saliva (this is called water brash).
• Nausea.

Bernstein test - Test that helps to confirm that the symptoms are a result of acid in the esophagus. The test is performed by dripping a mild acid through a tube placed in the esophagus.

Esophageal manometry - This test helps determine the strength of the muscles in the esophagus. It is useful in evaluating gastroesophageal reflux and swallowing abnormalities. A small tube is guided into the nostril, then passed into the throat, and finally into the esophagus. The pressure the esophageal muscles produce at rest is then measured.

pH monitoring - Measures the acidity inside of the esophagus. It is helpful in evaluating gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). A thin, plastic tube is placed into a nostril, guided down the throat, and then into the esophagus. The tube stops just above the lower esophageal sphincter, which is at the connection between the esophagus and the stomach. At the end of the tube inside the esophagus is a sensor that measures pH, or acidity. The other end of the tube outside the body is connected to a monitor that records the pH levels for a 12 to 24 hour period. Normal activity is encouraged during the study, and a diary is kept of symptoms experienced, or activity that might be suspicious for reflux, such as gagging or coughing. The pH readings are evaluated and compared to the patient's activity for that time period.

Then a proper and Specific Treatment will be Determined on basis of your Age, overall health, extend of condition, Tolerence for specific medications, procedures, therapies and Medical History.

USEFUL TIPS

• Quit smoking.
• Avoid overeating.
• Watch food intake and limit
• fried and fatty foods
• Eat smaller portions.
• Watch consumption of alcohol.
• Elevate the head of the bed 6 inches.
• Do not lie down or go to bed right after a meal