Understanding GERD: Symptoms, Causes, and Diagnosis
By:
Apex Hospitals
10-07-2025

Understanding GERD: Symptoms, Causes, and Diagnosis
Do you frequently experience a burning sensation in your chest? This could be acid reflux, where stomach acid flows back into the oesophagus (food pipe). While occasional acid reflux or heartburn is common, having these symptoms more than twice a week may indicate Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)—a chronic condition affecting 20–30% of India’s population. If left untreated, GERD can lead to serious complications. This article explains GERD’s symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and treatment options.
What is Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)?
GERD is a chronic digestive disorder where stomach acid frequently flows back into the oesophagus, irritating its lining. This backflow happens when the lower oesophageal sphincter (LES)—a muscular ring separating the stomach from the oesophagus—weakens or relaxes abnormally. While occasional reflux is normal, GERD is diagnosed when symptoms occur twice a week or more.
- Persistent heartburn (burning sensation from the stomach to chest or throat)
- Sour or bitter taste in the mouth
- Regurgitation of food or liquids
Common symptoms include:
Symptoms of GERD
- Burning sensation rising from the stomach to chest and throat
- Sour or bitter taste in the mouth
- Regurgitation of stomach contents
Primary symptoms:
- Feeling of a lump in the throat (Globus sensation)
- Chronic cough
- Hoarseness or voice changes
- Bad breath despite oral hygiene
Other symptoms:
- Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
- Painful swallowing (odynophagia)
- Persistent nausea or vomiting
- Unexplained weight loss
- Anaemia
- Gastrointestinal bleeding (black or bloody stools)
Alarm symptoms (require immediate attention):
- Nighttime symptoms (especially when lying down)
- Large or fatty meals
- Bending over after eating
- Smoking and alcohol use
Triggers and aggravators:
Causes of GERD
GERD is caused when the LES weakens, allowing acid to reflux into the oesophagus. Factors include:
- Hiatal hernia – stomach pushes through diaphragm
- Overeating – reduces LES pressure
- Lying down after meals
Anatomical and physical factors:
- Smoking or second-hand smoke
- Frequent NSAID use (aspirin, ibuprofen)
- Alcohol consumption
Lifestyle factors:
- Obesity
- Pregnancy
- Aging
- Anxiety, asthma, and IBS
Health conditions:
- Fried and fatty foods
- Spicy or acidic items (tomatoes, citrus, pineapple)
- Chocolate, peppermint
- Tea, coffee, carbonated drinks
Dietary triggers:
Diagnosis of GERD
Your doctor may recommend the following tests:
1. Ambulatory 24-hour pH Monitoring
A small tube with a pH sensor is inserted through the nose to monitor acid exposure.
2. Esophagram (Barium Swallow)
X-rays of the upper digestive tract after drinking a barium liquid.
3. Upper Endoscopy
A camera-enabled tube checks for inflammation, ulcers, or strictures.
4. Esophageal Manometry
Measures the movement and strength of oesophageal muscles.
5. Esophageal pH Monitoring (Wireless)
A monitor records acid exposure over several days.
Diagnosis helps determine the right treatment plan.
Treatment of GERD
- Breathing exercises to reduce stress
- Low-acid diet with fruits, vegetables, and lean protein
- Weight management
- Quit smoking
- Avoid large meals before bed
- Elevate head while sleeping
Lifestyle strategies:
- Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs) – reduce acid production
- H2 Receptor Blockers – decrease acid production
- Antacids – provide quick relief
Medications:
Consult a doctor before starting medications.
- Fundoplication – stomach is wrapped around LES to strengthen it
- Endoscopic sewing – stitches reinforce LES
- Radiofrequency ablation – controlled heat tightens LES muscle
Surgical and endoscopic options:
GERD and Quality of Life
- Esophagitis
- Esophageal ulcers
- Strictures
- Barrett’s oesophagus
- Esophageal cancer
Frequent acid reflux can disturb sleep, impact daily life, and lead to complications like:
Consult a doctor if symptoms persist or worsen.
Book your consultation: https://www.apexhospitals.com/book/book-an-appointment
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