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He is one of the best gastroenterology doctors I have ever visited. Took my uncle for stomach pain, the doctor did endoscopy & colonoscopy, diagnosed the problem as large intestine cancer, the doctor asked a...
Uma V
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The doctor is extremely professional and polite. He explains the problem patiently and does not prescribe unnecessary medication. He gives priority to the patient's well-being over everything. I Will definitely recommend him
Chandrasekhar Sriramula
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I have referred/recommended a couple of my relatives and friends to this Dr (Dr. Srujan Kumar Dasyam). I say that the diagnosis and treatment are good and also Dr listens patiently in understanding the patient's...
Apoorva Reddy Panyala
Table Of Contents
- What is Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease(GERD)?
- What are the Causes of GERD?
- What are the symptoms of GERD?
- What are the Risk Factors of GERD?
- How is GERD Diagnosed?
- What are the Treatment for GERD?
What is Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease(GERD)?
GERD is a chronic digestive condition in which acid persistently and repeatedly flows back up into the food pipe. It is also called acid reflux disorder. The main difference between acid reflux and GERD is acid reflux can be mild to profound, whereas GERD is a more severe form of acid reflux (chronic).
What are the Causes of GERD?
GERD is caused by frequent acid reflux. When you ingest food, a circular band of muscle around the bottom of your lower esophageal sphincter (LES) relaxes to allow ingested food or liquid to move into your stomach. Then the LES closes again. If the LES fails to relax normally or is weakened, stomach acid can move back up your esophagus. This consistent movement of acid into esophagus irritates the cells lining your esophagus, often causing it to become inflamed. GERD occurs more commonly in:
- Pregnant women
- People who are obese.
- People who consume certain foods like carbonated drinks, citrus, tea and caffeine
- People who consume alcohol.
- Smokers
What are the Symptoms of GERD?
The main symptom of GERD is acid reflux (or) heartburn. Acid reflux can cause an unbearable Burning sensation in your chest region, neck and throat. If you have heartburn, you might develop bad breath and a bitter taste in the back of your mouth. It might also cause regurgitation.
Some other symptoms of GERD include:
- Epigastric pain
- Dysphagia ( difficulty in swallowing )
- Chest pain
- Nausea
- Globus sensation
What are the Risk Factors of GERD?
Some of the risk factors of GERD include
- Hiatus Hernia
- Pregnancy
- Connective tissue disorders such as scleroderma
Some habits can aggravate GERD including
- Alcohol consumption
- Smoking
- Caffeinated beverages
How is GERD Diagnosed?
Diagnosis of GERD is based on physical examination and history of signs and symptoms. To confirm the diagnosis of GERD, the doctor may perform some tests including:
- UGI Endoscopy
- Esophageal biopsy
- Esophageal PH monitoring
- Esophageal manometry
What are the Treatments for GERD?
GERD is a chronic disease which requires long term management, changes in lifestyle, medication and if needed, surgery.
MEDICATION:
- Antacids or Proton pump inhibitors
- H2 blockers
- Prokinetics
SURGERY: Nissen fundoplication, LINX device surgery, transoral incisionless fundoplication.
