Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease Occurs due to Stomach Acid
Gastroesophageal reflux disease occurs when stomach acid frequently flows back into the tube connecting your mouth and stomach. This backwash can irritate the lining of your esophagus. Many people experience acid reflux from time to time. 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.
Some doctors believe a hiatal hernia may weaken the LES and increase the risk for gastroesophageal reflux. Hiatal hernia occurs when the upper part of the stomach moves up into the chest through a small opening in the diaphragm (diaphragmatic hiatus). The diaphragm is the muscle separating the abdomen from the chest. Recent studies show that the opening in the diaphragm helps support the lower end of the esophagus. Many people with a hiatal hernia will not have problems with heartburn or reflux. But having a hiatal hernia may allow stomach contents to reflux more easily into the esophagus.
The most common acid reflux and GERD symptoms include:
Heartburn
Waking up in the middle of the night feeling like you’re choking or coughing
Dry mouth
Gum irritation, including tenderness and bleeding
Bad breath
Regurgitation of acidic foods
Bloating after meals and during bouts of symptoms
Nausea
Bloody vomiting (possible sign of damage in the lining of the esophagus)
Black stool
Belching, gassiness, burping and flatulence after meals
Hiccups that are difficult to stop
Difficulty swallowing (a possible sign of narrowing esophagus)
Unexpected weight loss
Increased discomfort when bending over or lying down
Hoarseness upon waking or throughout the day
Chronic throat irritation, soreness and dryness
Treatment
GERD will often be treated with medications before attempting other lines of treatment.
Proton pump inhibitors are one of the main pharmaceutical treatment options for people with GERD. They decrease the amount of acid produced by the stomach.
Other options include:
H2 blockers: These are another option to help decrease acid production.
Antacids: These counteract the acid in the stomach with alkaline chemicals. Side effects can include diarrhea and constipation. Antacids are available to purchase online.
Prokinetics: These help the stomach empty faster. Side effects include diarrhea, nausea, and anxiety.
Erythromycin: This is a type of antibiotic that also helps empty the stomach.