Acid Reflux and GERD

Thanksgiving is marked by giving thanks for what we have and by eating, lots and lots of eating. You know the drill, after copious amounts of turkey and mashed potatoes, followed by a few servings of pumpkin pie, that inevitable burning sensation in the chest sets in. That burning in the heart (known as acid reflux) is just part of the entire experience for many of us, but if it becomes more regular than just after an occasional large meal, it can be a sign of something serious, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). According to the American College of Gastroenterology, more than 60 million Americans experience heartburn at least once a month, but if you experience it more than once a week it’s time to give Prime Meridian Healthcare a call (1).

What is Acid Reflux?

Commonly referred to just as heartburn, acid reflux is that burning pain in the lower chest that is often experienced after one has eaten too much in one sitting. That burning sensation is caused by the acid of the stomach coming back up into the esophagus. Inside the stomach is hydrochloric acid, which helps break down food and protects against pathogens. While the stomach is lined specifically to deal with this potent acid, the esophagus is not. In normal situations, the gastroesophageal sphincter keeps the contents of the stomach out of the esophagus, but it isn’t always completely effective. When this occurs, the highly acidic contents of the stomach can irritate the unlined esophagus, causing that intense burning sensation. Acid reflux does not have one singular cause; it can be instigated by a particularly large meal or certain foods or drinks, stress, or even other health conditions such as a hiatal hernia (when a part of the stomach pushes through the diaphragm). Like many health issues, acute bouts of acid reflux aren’t a cause for major concern and can be easily treated, but when it becomes chronic it may be a sign of damage that requires medical attention.

What is GERD? 

GERD is a chronic condition characterized by regular acid reflux, primarily after eating. While most people will experience occasional heartburn, the threshold for a GERD diagnosis is the level and frequency of such events; usually experiencing bouts more than twice a week. GERD diagnosis is focused on a review of symptoms and medical history, but often medical providers seek to get a direct view of the esophagus and stomach through a procedure called an endoscopy. Other testing, such as a measurement of esophageal acid levels (esophageal monitoring) may also take place.

One of the biggest challenges with GERD is diagnosis, as most people at some point experience gastric reflux and often do not consult a medical professional until the condition has reached an extreme point. Recent systematic reviews suggest that, dependent on the nation, as much as 28 percent of the population (approximately 20 percent in North America) may have GERD, but only a small percentage seek medical attention (2). Due to this, hospitalizations and death due to GERD are rapidly increasing (3).