Acid Reflux & GERD

Heartburn

A burning sensation in the chest, often after eating or at night

Regurgitation

Sour or bitter-tasting fluid backing up into the throat or mouth

Dry Cough

A persistent cough not associated with a respiratory infection

Hoarseness

A raspy or strained voice due to irritation of the throat

Chronic Sore Throat

Persistent soreness in the throat

Dysphagia

Difficulty swallowing, leading to discomfort or pain during eating

Abdominal Pain or Bloating

Uncomfortable fullness and bloating after eating

Hiatal Hernia

When the top of the stomach protrudes through the diaphragm, it compromises the LES's ability to close effectively, leading to acid reflux.

Eating Large Meals

Consuming large meals increases pressure on the LES, resulting in heartburn and abdominal discomfort.

Lying Down After Eating

Immediately lying down after a meal disrupts digestion and hinders proper LES function, promoting reflux.

Obesity

Extra weight raises abdominal pressure, weakening the muscles supporting the LES and facilitating reflux.

Pregnancy

Elevated levels of hormones during pregnancy relax the LES, contributing to acid reflux symptoms.

Smoking

Tobacco smoke relaxes the LES and chronic coughing from smoking may weaken diaphragm muscles, increasing the risk of hiatal hernia.

Medications

Certain drugs like calcium channel blockers, antidepressants, sedatives, and asthma medications can relax the LES, exacerbating reflux.

Upper Gastrointestinal (GI) Endoscopy

This procedure examines the upper GI tract using an endoscope. Biopsies may be taken to identify complications or underlying conditions.

Oesophageal pH Monitoring

This measures acid content in the oesophagus during different activities using a pH sensor attached to a tube inserted during an endoscopy. It helps confirm GERD diagnosis and assess treatment efficacy.

Oesophageal Manometry

Also known as oesophageal motility studies, this test evaluates the strength of oesophageal muscles. A flexible tube inserted through the nose assesses muscle function, ruling out conditions with similar symptoms to GERD.

Esophagitis

Chronic exposure to stomach acid causes inflammation of the oesophagus.

Esophageal Stricture

Scarring leads to the narrowing of the oesophagus, causing swallowing difficulties.

Barrett’s Oesophagus

Chronic irritation may lead to changes in the oesophageal lining, increasing the risk of oesophageal cancer.

Oesophageal Cancer

Long-term GERD can heighten the risk of developing oesophageal cancer.

Aspiration Pneumonia

Inhalation of stomach contents into the lungs can cause respiratory infections.

Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs)

Often considered an effective medication for GERD symptoms, PPIs can help heal the oesophageal lining in most cases.

H2 Blockers

These medications reduce stomach acid production. They can help heal the oesophagus but may not be as effective as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs).

LINX Surgery

This procedure involves the placement of a small ring of magnetic beads around the oesophagus's lower end, where it connects to the stomach. This device helps prevent stomach acid from flowing back into the oesophagus while still allowing food to pass through.