Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GORD) is a chronic digestive disease. It occurs when stomach acid or occasionally the contents of the stomach, flow back (reflux) into the esophagus (the tube connecting the mouth to the stomach). This backward flow can irritate the lining of the esophagus causing symptoms and possibly damaging the esophagus.
Symptoms of GORD include heartburn, regurgitation of food or sour liquid, difficulty swallowing, coughing, wheezing, and chest pain, especially while lying down at night.
These symptoms can be more noticeable after a meal and might worsen if the person lies down immediately after eating.
It’s caused by a weakness or malfunction of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), a ring of muscle at the bottom of the esophagus that acts as a valve between it and the stomach. The LES is supposed to close after allowing food to pass through to the stomach, but if it doesn’t close all the way, or if it opens too often, acid produced by your stomach, and sometimes partially digested food, can move up into your esophagus causing GORD.
Treatment options vary depending on the severity of symptoms, they include lifestyle changes, medications that reduce the production of stomach acid and surgery for some severe cases that do not respond to other treatments. It is important to consult a healthcare professional if symptoms persist.
Causes of Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD)
Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD or GERD) is typically caused by a breakdown or fault in the normal protective mechanisms that keep stomach acid in the stomach. Here are the main causes:
1. Lower Esophageal Sphincter Weakness: Normally, the lower oesophageal sphincter (LES) tightens to prevent stomach acid from backing up into the oesophagus. In GORD, the LES may not tighten enough or may periodically relax, allowing stomach acid to flow backward (reflux) into the oesophagus.
2. Hiatal Hernia: A hiatal hernia can worsen GORD symptoms. It happens when the upper stomach and LES move above the diaphragm, which is a muscle separating your stomach from your chest. Normally, the diaphragm helps the LES keep acid from rising up into the oesophagus. When a hiatal hernia is present, it’s easier for the acid to come up.
3. Abnormal Esophageal Contractions: If the oesophagus doesn’t contract normally, it may not push food and gastric juices back into the stomach. This could make stomach acid linger in the oesophagus, leading to GORD.
4. Delayed Stomach Emptying: This can increase the amount of acid and the risk of it refluxing into the oesophagus.
5. Lifestyle Factors: Certain aspects of one’s lifestyle can also contribute to GORD. These include obesity, diet (eating high-fat foods, spicy foods, chocolate, mint, etc), smoking, alcohol or caffeine consumption, certain medicines, pregnancy, or lying down or going to bed soon after eating.
6. Stress and Lack of Sleep: These can worsen symptoms of GORD and make the pain seem worse than it is.
It is important to note that these causes increase the risk of GORD and not everyone with these risk factors will develop the condition.
Risk Factors of Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD)
Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD) is a condition in which stomach acid leaks up into the oesophagus, causing heartburn and other symptoms. There are several risk factors associated with developing GORD, which include:
1. Obesity: Excess weight puts pressure on your abdomen, pushing up your stomach and causing acid to back up into your oesophagus.
2. Hiatal hernia: This condition, which occurs when part of your stomach pushes upward through your diaphragm, can lead to GORD.
3. Pregnancy: Hormonal changes and physical pressure from the growing baby can lead to GORD.
4. Connective tissue disorders: Conditions such as scleroderma can affect the muscles in your oesophagus, leading to GORD.
5. Delayed stomach emptying: This can increase the risk of acid reflux and GORD.
6. Lifestyle factors: Factors such as smoking, alcohol use, eating large meals or eating late at night, or eating certain types of foods like those high in fat, citrus, chocolate, caffeine, onions, spicy food, and peppermint can increase your risk of GORD.
7. Certain medications: Certain medications, including some for asthma, antihistamines, pain relievers, sedatives, antidepressants, and calcium channel blockers, can worsen GERD symptoms.
8. Age: GORD is more common in people over age 40, though it can develop at any age.
It is also noted that people with asthma or diabetes have an increased risk of developing GORD. If you’re at risk, it’s important to take steps such as making lifestyle changes to prevent its onset.
Signs and Symptoms of Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD)
Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD) is a common condition where acid from the stomach leaks up into the oesophagus (gullet). Here are the common signs and symptoms one may experience:
1. Heartburn: This is the main symptom of GORD. It’s a burning feeling in the chest caused by stomach acid travelling up towards the throat.
2. Regurgitation: This is where acid leaks from your stomach up into your throat and mouth.
3. Difficulty swallowing: Also known as dysphagia, this symptom can feel like food is stuck in your throat or chest.
4. Persistent cough and/or sore throat: Acid reflux can irritate the throat causing a dry cough and a persistent sore throat.
5. Hoarseness or changes in voice: Some people with GORD, especially those who have significant reflux at night, may find their voices are hoarse when they wake up.
6. Bad breath, bloating and belching, feeling sick or vomiting.
The above symptoms can occur several times in a week and may persist for several weeks if you are suffering from GORD. As these symptoms are quite common, they may not always mean you have GORD. It’s best to seek professional health advice if these symptoms persist.
Diagnosis Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD)
Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD) is a common condition where acid from the stomach leaks up into the oesophagus (gullet). This phenomenon is also known as acid reflux.
This condition is usually long-term (chronic) and occurs when the lower oesophageal sphincter (LES) doesn’t close properly or opens too often, allowing stomach acid to escape into the esophagus, leading to heartburn and other uncomfortable symptoms.
Common symptoms of GORD include heartburn, acid reflux, and discomfort in the chest, especially after eating. Other symptoms can include bad breath, bloating, a sour or bitter taste in the mouth, difficulty or pain when swallowing, and often a feeling like a lump in the stomach.
Factors that can increase the risk of GORD include obesity, smoking, pregnancy, certain foods like spicy food or alcohol, and certain medications.
Treatment usually involves lifestyle changes such as eating smaller, more frequent meals, avoiding foods and drinks that trigger heartburn, maintaining a healthy weight, not wearing tight clothes, not smoking, and not going to bed soon after eating. Over-the-counter medications can also help reduce symptoms.
In more severe cases, prescription medications or even surgery might be required. Always consult with a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment.
Treatment of Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD)
Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD) is a common condition where acid from the stomach leaks up into the oesophagus (gullet). This can cause symptoms such as heartburn and an unpleasant taste in the back of the mouth.
The treatment for GORD typically involves lifestyle changes, medication, and in some cases, surgery.
1. Lifestyle changes: Some people with GORD may find their symptoms improve by making certain lifestyle changes, such as:
Avoiding certain foods and drinks that can trigger symptoms, such as spicy foods, chocolate, coffee, alcohol, or fatty foods.
Eating smaller, more frequent meals instead of three large meals a day.
Maintaining a healthy weight.
Quitting smoking.
Avoiding lying down or going to bed soon after eating.
2. Medications: If lifestyle changes are not enough to control symptoms, medication may be needed.
Over-the-counter antacids can neutralize stomach acid to provide quick relief.
H2 blockers and proton pump inhibitors can reduce the production of stomach acid.
Prokinetics can help strengthen the lower esophageal sphincter and make the stomach empty faster.
It’s crucial to consult a doctor or pharmacist before starting any new medication for GORD.
3. Surgery: If the symptoms persist despite lifestyle changes and medicines, a last resort could be a type of surgery known as laparoscopic fundoplication. This is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that improves the natural barrier between the stomach and the oesophagus.
Remember, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare professional if you’re experiencing symptoms of GORD as the above treatment options should be tailored to individual needs and circumstances.
Medications commonly used for Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD)
Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD) represents a condition where stomach acid frequently flows back into the tube connecting your mouth and stomach (oesophagus). This acid reflux can irritate the lining of your oesophagus. There are several common medications that are used to treat GORD:
1. Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs): PPIs reduce the production of stomach acid, thus helping to heal the oesophagus. They are often prescribed for severe cases of GORD. Common PPI medications include omeprazole (Prilosec), lansoprazole (Prevacid), pantoprazole (Protonix), rabeprazole (Aciphex), esomeprazole (Nexium), and dexlansoprazole (Dexilant).
2. H2-receptor antagonists: These reduce the amount of acid the stomach produces, but not as strongly as PPIs. They are often used for less severe cases of GORD. Examples include famotidine (Pepcid), cimetidine (Tagamet), ranitidine (Zantac), and nizatidine (Axid).
3. Antacids: These drugs can provide temporary relief by neutralising stomach acid. They do not help in healing the oesophagus. Antacids include compounds like magnesium carbonate, aluminium hydroxide, and calcium carbonate. They are available over the counter.
4. Alginate drugs: These aim to create a barrier in your stomach that protects the oesophagus from gastric acid. An example of an alginate drug used to treat GORD is Gaviscon.
5. Prokinetic agents: These medications help your stomach empty more quickly to prevent acid build-up. An example is metoclopramide (Reglan). They are less commonly used due to their side effects.
Please remember it’s vital to follow the prescribed dosage by your healthcare provider. Also, these medications may have side effects. Talk to your doctor if you are concerned about side effects or if the medicines are not working as expected.
Prevention of Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD)
Prevention of Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD) involves numerous lifestyle modifications and dietary changes to manage symptoms and prevent further damage to the oesophagus. Here are the following preventive measures:
1. Maintain a Healthy Weight: Extra weight can pressure the stomach and result in higher risk of GORD. Maintaining a healthy weight can reduce this risk.
2. Adjust eating habits: Eating large meals can increase stomach pressure and lead to reflux. Eating smaller, more frequent meals may help. You should also avoid eating anything two to three hours before you lie down.
3. Improve Diet: Certain foods and beverages are known to aggravate GORD symptoms. This may include coffee, alcohol, chocolate, fatty and fried foods, garlic, onions, mint, spicy foods, tomato-based foods, and carbonated beverages. By keeping a food diary, you can identify which foods trigger your symptoms and then limit or avoid them.
4. Stop Smoking: Nicotine in cigarettes weakens the lower esophageal sphincter, the muscle that keeps the stomach’s contents from backing up into the esophagus.
5. Elevate your Head during Sleep: Lying down flat can aggravate reflux. Raising the head of your bed by about six inches may help. You can use wooden blocks under your bedposts, or use a foam wedge support to raise your upper body.
6. Avoid Tight Fitting Clothes: Clothes that are tight around your waist can put pressure on your abdomen and the lower esophageal sphincter.
7. Limit Alcohol: Alcohol can cause your stomach to produce more acid than normal, which can irritate your stomach lining and cause GORD symptoms.
8. Stay Hydrated: Regular and adequate intake of water or other non-sparking fluids can help reduce the acidity in your stomach and prevent the onset of GORD.
Remember to always seek the advice of a healthcare professional or dietitian for personal advice.
FAQ’s about Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD)
1. What is Gastro-Oesophageal Reflux Disease (GORD)?
GORD is a chronic condition where stomach acid or bile flows back into the oesophagus, causing irritation and discomfort.
2. What are the symptoms of GORD?
Common symptoms include heartburn, acid regurgitation, difficulty swallowing, chronic cough, a sensation of a lump in the throat, and chest pain.
3. How is GORD diagnosed?
If you have symptoms of GORD, your doctor may initially try a course of medications and see if your symptoms improve. If not, tests like endoscopy or ambulatory acid (pH) probe tests can be conducted.
4. Are heartburn and GORD the same?
No. Heartburn is a symptom of GORD. It is the burning sensation that you feel in your chest, behind the breastbone.
5. What are the causes of GORD?
GORD is caused by frequent acid reflux, where stomach acid backs up into your oesophagus. This can occur for various reasons, like a weak lower oesophageal sphincter, obesity, smoking, certain medications, or a hiatal hernia.
6. How is GORD treated?
First line treatment typically includes lifestyle changes and medications like antacids, H-2-receptor blockers, or proton pump inhibitors. For severe cases, surgical interventions may be needed.
7. Can GORD be prevented?
Lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding foods that trigger heartburn, eating smaller meals, quitting smoking, and elevating the head of your bed can help prevent GORD.
8. Can GORD cause cancer?
Longstanding, untreated GORD can lead to a condition called Barrett’s oesophagus, which can increase the risk of developing oesophageal cancer.
9. Does GORD require surgery?
Whilst medications and lifestyle modifications can control GORD in many people, certain individuals may require surgical procedures like fundoplication or LINX device implantation.
10. Are there any dietary restrictions for GORD?
People with GORD are often advised to avoid foods and drinks that can trigger reflux symptoms, like greasy or spicy foods, chocolate, caffeine, alcohol, and peppermint.
Always consult with a healthcare professional for personalized medical consultation. It is important to seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe, persistent chest pain, especially if you have other signs and symptoms such as shortness of breath, arm pain, dizziness, or sweating, which could suggest a heart attack.
Useful links
Gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GORD) is a common condition where the patient experiences symptoms due to reflux of acid from the stomach into the oesophagus. It is caused when the ring of muscle that allows food into your stomach (the lower oesophageal sphincter) becomes weakened or relaxes when it shouldn’t, allowing stomach acid to flow back up into your oesophagus. Typical symptoms include heartburn and acid reflux. However, most people with GORD have symptoms such as heartburn that are well controlled by treatment.
Here are some useful links and resources from various medical and research journals:
Please note that these are clinical researches and medical information, make sure to visit a health professional for personal medical advice.
Complications of Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD)
Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD) is a common condition where the stomach acid leaks into the oesophagus and can cause a range of complications:
1. Oesophagitis: In GORD, stomach acid can irritate the lining of the oesophagus, leading to oesophagitis. This can cause symptoms such as difficulty swallowing, pain when swallowing, and severe heartburn. If oesophagitis becomes severe, it can lead to open sores (oesophageal ulcers) and scarring, which can narrow the oesophagus.
2. Barrett’s Oesophagus: Long-term GORD can sometimes lead to a condition known as Barrett’s oesophagus. In this condition, the normal cells in the oesophagus are replaced by abnormal cells in an attempt to deal with the excessive acid exposure over time. This increases the risk of developing oesophageal cancer.
3. Respiratory problems: In some instances, stomach acid can get into the lungs, leading to a range of respiratory problems, including recurring pneumonia, sore throat, chronic cough, asthma, and sinusitis.
4. Dental problems: Stomach acid can also cause dental problems such as tooth decay, toothache, gum inflammation, and bad breath due to the constant exposure of teeth to stomach acid.
5. Strictures: Over time, acid reflux can cause the formation of scar tissue which can narrow the oesophagus. This is called a stricture. Symptoms can include trouble swallowing or food getting stuck in the throat.
6. Oesophageal Adenocarcinoma: GORD slightly raises the risk of getting this rare kind of cancer, where tumors form in the tissue lining the oesophagus.
Please note that these complications are more likely in cases where GORD is poorly managed, or in severe cases of the disease. They are less likely to occur when GORD is properly managed with appropriate medical treatment.
Home remedies of Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD)
1. Maintain Healthy Weight: Being overweight can put undue pressure on the stomach and make GORD symptoms worse. Maintaining a healthy body weight could help alleviate these symptoms.
2. Eating Habits: Avoid eating large meals, instead eat smaller meals frequently. Tweak the diet, avoid consuming fried, fatty and spicy food, caffeinated drinks, alcohol which may trigger GORD symptoms.
3. Eat Wisely: Give the body plenty of time to process food and secrete less acid, so try to eat well before bedtime. It’s often recommended to eat 2-3 hours before lying down.
4. Avoid Certain Foods: Certain food items can trigger heartburn like citrus fruits, tomatoes, chocolate, peppermint, garlic, onions, and caffeine. Try to avoid these.
5. Quit Smoking: Smoking tends to weaken the lower esophageal sphincter and can lead to reflux symptoms.
6. Stay Upright: After eating, try to stay upright for a couple of hours, this uses gravity to help stomach acid stay in your stomach.
7. Elevate Your Bed: Raising the head of the bed by 6-9 inches may also help, use blocks or a foam wedge to accomplish this.
8. Wearing Loose Clothes: Tight clothes can add pressure to the stomach and therefore, worsening symptoms. Wearing loose, comfortable clothing can help prevent reflux.
9. Alcohol Limitation: Alcohol can increase the production of stomach acid and also relax the lower part of your gullet, making acid reflux more likely.
10. Stress Management: Stress seems to exacerbate symptoms of GORD, so consider practicing stress-managing techniques, like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises.
Remember, these are only remedies and not a cure. GORD is a medical condition and if symptoms persist, medical attention is required.
Always consult with a healthcare provider or a professional medical practitioner for personalized advice.