Frequently Asked Questions

• What causes GERD?

  GERD is caused by frequent acid reflux.

  When you swallow, a circular band of muscle around the bottom of your esophagus (lower esophageal sphincter) relaxes to allow food and liquid to flow into your stomach. Then the sphincter closes again.

  If the sphincter relaxes abnormally or weakens, stomach acid can flow back up into your esophagus. This constant backwash of acid irritates the lining of your esophagus, often causing it to become inflamed.

• Is acid reflux and GERD the same thing?

  Acid reflux and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) are closely related, but the terms don't necessarily mean the same thing.

  Acid reflux is the backward flow of stomach acid into the esophagus (the tube that connects your throat to your stomach). During an episode of acid reflux, you might feel a burning sensation in your chest (heartburn). This can occur after eating a big meal or drinking coffee or alcohol.

  Sometimes acid reflux progresses to GERD, a more severe form of reflux. The most common symptom of GERD is frequent heartburn —two or more times a week.

• Can chronic heartburn be harmful?

  Yes, chronic heartburn, also known as acid reflux, can be a sign of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Persistent exposure to stomach acids can inflame and damage the lining of the esophagus.

  It also can lead to a condition called Barrett’s esophagus, characterized by pre-cancerous lesions in the esophageal lining.

• How do I know if I have heartburn or something else?

  Only a doctor can make a diagnosis. Talk to your doctor if:

  • Your heartburn happens two or more times a week
  • Your heartburn gets worse
  • Your heartburn wakes you from sleep at night
  • You’ve had heartburn now and then for several years
  • You have difficulty or pain when swallowing
  • Your discomfort interferes with daily activities

  GERD and related disorders can usually be diagnosed based on the signs and symptoms. Tests may be done to confirm or exclude a GERD or other esophageal disorder diagnosis.

• What are the risk factors for GERD?

  Advancing age, obesity, pregnancy, regular use of aspirin and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, loss of physical mobility, smoking, alcohol and an incompetent valve between the stomach and esophagus are found to be among the many associated risk factors for GERD.

• When should I call my doctor about heartburn?

  You should call the doctor about your heartburn if you:

  • Have symptoms that are more severe or frequent
  • Have difficulty swallowing or pain when swallowing, especially with solid foods or pills
  • Have nausea or vomiting
  • Experience drastic or unexplained weight loss
  • Have a chronic cough, choking sensation or sense of a lump in your throat
  • Have been using over-the-counter antacid medications for more than two weeks and you still have heartburn symptoms
  • Still have symptoms even after taking prescription or nonprescription medications
  • Have chronic hoarseness or wheezing, or your asthma has worsened
  • Have pain that interferes with your daily activities
  • Have chest pain accompanied by pain in the neck, jaw, arms, or legs; shortness of breath, weakness, irregular pulse, or sweating
  • Have extreme stomach pain
  • Are experiencing diarrhea or black or bloody bowel movements
• What happens if my heartburn goes untreated?

  In addition to its negative impact on your quality of life, heartburn can be a sign of more serious diseases, including Barrett's esophagus. If untreated, Barrett’s esophagus may progress to esophageal cancer.

• What is esophageal motility?

  Esophageal motility refers to contractions occurring in the esophagus (the tube connecting the throat to the stomach) which propel the food toward the stomach. When contractions in the esophagus become irregular, unsynchronized or absent, the patient is said to have esophageal dysmotility.

• What causes swallowing disorders?

  There are a number of disorders that can cause swallowing problems, including nervous system disorders, esophageal motility disorders (such as achalasia), head or neck injuries, and even certain medications. Treatment will depend on the type of disorder and its underlying cause.

• What are the risk factors for esophageal cancer?

  Chronic irritation of your esophagus may contribute to the changes that cause esophageal cancer. Factors that cause irritation in the cells of your esophagus and increase your risk of esophageal cancer may include:

  • Chronic reflux
  • Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
  • Barrett's esophagus
  • Longstanding and untreated achalasia
  • Being overweight or obese
  • Tobacco and alcohol consumption
  • Having a steady habit of drinking very hot liquids
  • Not eating enough fruits and vegetables
  • Undergoing radiation treatment to the chest or upper abdomen