What is GERD?

GERD is a relatively common digestive disorder that impacts nearly 20 percent of the United States population. Despite its relatively common occurrence, many people still remain largely unaware of what GERD is, what causes it, and how they can treat it.

What Is GERD? 

GERD is the abbreviation for the medical term gastrointestinal reflux disease. This ailment occurs when stomach acid and other digestive liquids back up into the esophagus. It can also be thought of as acid reflux.

The Causes Of GERD 

The primary cause of GERD is weakness or complete malfunction of bodily structures known as esophageal sphincters. When esophageal sphincters do not operate to their full capacity or fail to close properly, they allow digestive products (like bile and acid) to back up into the esophagus.

That said, there are several factors that might contribute to the weakening of esophageal sphincters, such as:

• Obesity
• Pregnancy
• Consistent overeating
• Smoking
• The presence of a hiatal hernia, which is a medical condition where a portion of the impacted person's stomach extends into their diaphragm

GERD may also be caused or exaggerated by lifestyle choices like the consumption of fatty or exceedingly spicy foods, alcohol consumption and the frequent consumption of caffeinated beverages like coffee, tea and soda. In some instances, certain medications may precipitate or exacerbate the onset of GERD.

GERD Symptoms 

Typically, those afflicted with GERD experience frequent bouts of heartburn (a burning sensation in the chest or throat) and indigestion. However, the ailment can produce other fairly common physical manifestations, including:

• Chest tightness
• Difficulty swallowing
• Abdominal pain

GERD might also cause less common symptoms, such as tooth damage or decay brought on by the influx of stomach acid, a persistent sore throat, and respiratory symptoms like coughing and breathing difficulties.

Contact Florida ENT Today 

If you’ve been diagnosed with GERD or believe you might have the condition, the physicians of ENT Florida are here to help. We have offices in Orlando and Kissimmee. For more information about the services we provide, visit us online!