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Upper GI

Acid Reflux (GERD)

Gastroesophageal reflux disease occurs when stomach contents repeatedly wash back into the esophagus, causing heartburn, regurgitation, and — over time — potential damage to the esophageal lining.

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Symptoms

  • Burning sensation in the chest (heartburn), often after meals or at night
  • Regurgitation of food or a sour taste in the mouth
  • Difficulty or pain with swallowing
  • Chronic cough, hoarseness, or throat clearing
  • Feeling of a lump in the throat

Possible causes

  • Weakening of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES)
  • Hiatal hernia
  • Delayed stomach emptying
  • Contributing factors: obesity, pregnancy, tobacco, certain medications, late-night eating

How we diagnose

  • Clinical evaluation and symptom review
  • Trial of acid-suppression therapy
  • Upper endoscopy (gastroscopy) to assess for esophagitis, Barrett's esophagus, or complications
  • Ambulatory pH monitoring or high-resolution manometry when indicated

Treatment options

  • Lifestyle modifications: weight optimization, meal timing, sleep positioning
  • Acid-suppressing medications (H2 blockers, proton pump inhibitors)
  • Alginate therapies for post-meal reflux
  • Endoscopic or surgical antireflux options in selected cases

Lifestyle & prevention

  • Avoid eating within 3 hours of bedtime
  • Elevate the head of the bed 6–8 inches
  • Reduce known triggers: alcohol, tobacco, large fatty meals, and — individually — chocolate, mint, citrus
  • Modest weight loss if applicable