Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

The stomach produces acid and enzymes to digest food. When they travel from the stomach to the esophagus, this is called acid reflux. Having occasional liquid or gas reflux is considered normal.

When it happens frequently, for a longer period of time than normal and/or it causes other symptoms, it is considered a medical problem known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). If the stomach acid travels past the esophagus and into the throat or voice box, it is known as laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR).

GERD can increase your chances of developing esophageal cancer. At University of Maryland Medical Center, our gastrointestinal specialists at the Digestive Health Center can treat and monitor the symptoms of GERD.

GERD Symptoms

The symptoms typically consist of a burning sensation below and behind the lower part of the breastbone or sternum. Almost everyone at least once has experienced these symptoms, which is sometimes called heartburn or indigestion, typically after overeating.

GERD symptoms can also result from being overweight, eating certain types of foods or being pregnant. Esophageal reflux may also cause certain less common symptoms, such as hoarseness or chronic cough, and sometimes it provokes conditions like asthma.

People who have GERD symptoms frequently should consult a physician. Other diseases can have similar symptoms, and prescription medications in combination with other measures might be needed to reduce reflux.

GERD Treatment

GERD Medications

In most people, GERD symptoms last only a short time and require no treatment at all. More persistent symptoms are often quickly relieved by over-the-counter acid-reducing agents, like antacids.

Other drugs used to relieve GERD symptoms are antisecretory drugs such as histamine2 (H2) blockers or proton pump inhibitors.

GERD Surgery

While most patients find that lifestyle modifications and acid-blocking drugs relieve their symptoms, doctors occasionally recommend surgery.

In addition to medical management, our doctors may recommend minimally invasive surgery for GERD called laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication.

Complications from GERD

GERD that is untreated over a long period of time can lead to complications, such as an ulcer in the esophagus that could cause bleeding.

Another common complication is scar tissue that blocks the movement of swallowed food and drink through the esophagus; this condition is called stricture. Barrett's esophagus, a condition in which the normal esophageal lining is replaced by a new lining, is another complication of GERD.