Most of us have experienced heartburn from time to time — that burning feeling in the chest or throat after we’ve eaten a big meal, spicy foods or something else that doesn’t quite agree with us. In fact, more than 15 million adults experience heartburn every day, and at least 60 million adults suffer each month, according to the American College of Gastroenterology.

But if you suffer with symptoms at least twice a week, there may be more to the story than simple heartburn. You may have GERD.

What is GERD?

GERD stands for gastroesophageal reflux disease. During normal digestion, food passes into the stomach when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) muscle at the base of the esophagus opens. The LES then closes to stop food and acid from flowing back into the esophagus. GERD happens when the LES is weak and doesn’t close completely, which allows food and acid to go back into the esophagus.

What are the signs and symptoms of GERD?

Heartburn is the most common symptom of GERD. However, you can have GERD without experiencing heartburn.

The International Foundation for Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders (IFFGD) includes the following as common symptoms of GERD:

• Heartburn
• Trouble swallowing
• Belching
• Dysphagia (the sensation of food sticking in the esophagus)
• Chronic sore throat
• Laryngitis
• Inflammation of the gums
• Bad breath

Can you prevent GERD symptoms, like heartburn?

It is possible to prevent GERD symptoms. Avoid fatty foods, coffee, alcohol, chocolate, tomatoes or other trigger foods that cause heartburn, sore throat or other symptoms.

You can also prevent or reduce irritation from GERD by keeping these tips in mind:

• Eat smaller meal portions
• Eat at least two to three hours before bedtime
• Lose weight
• Quit smoking
• Use a specially designed pillow to prop yourself up at night

Is GERD treatable?

A good place to start managing GERD and its symptoms is through dietary and lifestyle changes. Over-the-counter medicines can be taken occasionally to reduce discomfort from heartburn.

Using antacids for an extended period of time can result in serious side effects, including diarrhea and changes in your calcium metabolism. Talk to your doctor if you need antacids for longer than two weeks.

Prescription medicine can help reduce acid secretion in the stomach. A small number of patients may need surgery if medicine, dietary and lifestyle changes don’t help manage GERD and its symptoms.

When should you talk to a doctor about GERD?

Since most of us experience heartburn at one time or another, it’s important to know when you should talk to your doctor or a gastroenterologist about your symptoms.

The IFFGD recommends talking to a doctor if:

• You experience heartburn more than twice a week
• Your heartburn worsens
• You’ve had occasional heartburn for several years
• Heartburn wakes you up from sleep
• Swallowing is difficult or painful
• Heartburn interferes with daily activities

For more information about gastroenterology services at Tanner, visit Gastroenterology Care.

West Georgia Gastroenterology Associates has locations in Carrollton, Villa Rica and Bremen. For more information, visit westgagastro.com or call 770-214-2800.