GERD: Definition, Symptoms, and Complications

By: Amal Arifi Hidayat, Sp.PD

Have you ever felt something rising up your esophagus after you've finished eating? Not only that, but your esophagus also feels hot afterward. You might actually be experiencing GERD, or acid reflux. Although this is a relatively common condition, many people still misunderstand it. Let's find out more in this article!

What is GERD?

GERD (Gastroesophageal reflux disease) is a condition where stomach acid rises into the esophagus and occurs over a long period of time. The esophagus, also known as the gullet, is a long, tube-like muscle that connects the throat to the stomach. To learn more, let's take a look at how the esophageal system works to move food from the mouth to the stomach:

1. After food is chewed in the mouth and swallowed, it flows into the stomach through the esophagus.
2. The upper esophageal sphincter (UES), a ring-shaped muscle located at the top of the esophagus, detects the presence of food or drink and automatically opens to allow food or drink to enter the esophagus.
3. In the esophagus, peristaltic movements push food downward until it reaches the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), a muscle located above the stomach.
4. The LES also works automatically and opens when it detects food or drink about to enter the stomach. Once food has entered the esophagus, the LES automatically narrows until it is completely closed, preventing food or stomach acid from rising into the esophagus.

In someone with GERD, the LES doesn't function properly to constrict its muscles, resulting in acid reflux, where stomach acid and food particles rise into the esophagus. This condition can occur occasionally, for example, when you lie down immediately after eating. However, in people with GERD, acid reflux occurs repeatedly over a long period of time.

GERD Symptoms

People with GERD can experience several mild to severe symptoms, including:

• Acid Reflux. The sensation of acid and food particles rising into the esophagus causes a burning sensation in the esophagus and sometimes a sour taste in the mouth.
• Chest pain. Some people experience esophageal pain without a burning sensation and may resemble heart pain, triggering nerves that cause chest pain.
• Nausea and sometimes vomiting. Acid reflux can trigger nausea and loss of appetite. Sometimes nausea is also accompanied by vomiting.
• Sore throat. Stomach acid rising into the esophagus irritates the esophageal wall, causing pain and burning, especially when eating or drinking.
• Respiratory problems. Acid particles entering the respiratory tract can cause respiratory problems, such as persistent coughing or asthma.

GERD can affect anyone, including babies. Unfortunately, because babies can't talk or complain yet, it can be difficult to recognize the symptoms. However, if your baby exhibits any of the following symptoms, it's best to consult a doctor immediately to determine the exact cause:

• More fussy than usual
• Excessive vomiting
• Refusing milk or solid foods in babies over 6 months
• Heavy, abnormal breathing sounds
• Unusual bad breath

Causes and Prevention of GERD

No one knows for certain what causes the weakening of the LES, which leads to acid reflux. However, several risk factors are thought to contribute to GERD, including:

• Pregnant women
• Obesity
• Habit of eating too quickly or too much
• Consumption of these medications
• Active and passive smoking
• Consumption of fatty, spicy, chocolatey, and caffeinated foods

To prevent GERD, you can try avoiding the risk factors mentioned above, except during pregnancy. If you're pregnant, always discuss your condition honestly with your obstetrician so that if you experience GERD, appropriate and safe treatment can be taken for you and your unborn baby.

Complications and Treatment of GERD

GERD is a common condition that many people experience. However, this condition should not be taken lightly and still requires proper treatment, as it can lead to serious complications, including:

• Esophagitis: Inflammation of the esophagus, which if not properly treated can change the tissue.
• Barrett's esophagus: The tissue lining the esophagus changes to resemble the lining of the intestine due to long-term exposure to acid and inflammation. This condition can lead to esophageal cancer.
• Laryngopharyngeal reflux: Reflux into the throat, causing swelling, voice changes, and the entry of stomach acid into the respiratory tract.

A single case of acid reflux may resolve on its own without requiring special treatment. However, if it occurs repeatedly, you should immediately consult an internist at Premier Hospital Surabaya. With prompt treatment by an experienced doctor, complications from GERD can be prevented. Contact us now to register online so your condition can be treated promptly.

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