Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) | Gleneagles Hospital Penang

What is Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)?

GERD, also known as acid reflux, is a chronic digestive disorder where contents from the stomach flows back into the oesophagus (food pipe). This reflux action can cause irritation and tissue damage to the oesophagus. The acid may also irritate the vocal cord or trigger lung inflammation.

GERD Causes & Risk Factors

The primary cause of GERD is dysfunction of the lower oesophageal sphincter (LES), which normally keeps stomach acid from rising up into the oesophagus. Factors that can weaken or relax the LES include:

Diseases like Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome and Scleroderma
Smoking
An increase in the production of gastrin, which is a stomach acid-regulating hormone
Obesity
Pregnancy
Use of certain medications

Food That Can Aggravate GERD

Alcohol
Carbonated beverages
Caffeine
Chocolate
Onions
Garlic
Spicy food
Mint
High-fat meals

What Are the Symptoms of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)?

The most common symptom that GERD produces is heartburn. Typically, a burning sensation of the chest that spreads from the stomach to the throat is felt. Other GERD symptoms include:

A bitter taste in the mouth (acid regurgitation)
Bloated tummy
Constant burping
Feeling of a lump in the throat
Voice hoarseness
Pain and difficulty swallowing
Discomfort or pain in the chest
Persistent cough
Persistent sore throat

GERD Treatment

Lifestyle Changes

Treatment of GERD varies depending on the severity of the condition. Lifestyle changes for those suffering mild GERD symptoms include:

Avoiding eating late in the evening or night
Avoiding food that induces acid reflux
Eating in smaller portions
Maintaining a normal and healthy weight
Quitting smoking
Raising your bed head
Avoiding wearing tight clothes that put pressure on the stomach

Medical Treatment

For moderate and severe symptoms that do not improve with lifestyle changes alone, medical treatment may be necessary. A common treatment is the use of Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs), which reduce the amount of acid produced by the stomach.

These medications are typically prescribed for a course of 4 to 8 weeks, depending on the severity of your symptoms. If symptoms return after stopping the medication, it is crucial to revisit your GP. Ongoing symptoms may require a long-term prescription.

Diagnostic Tests and Treatment Options

If medications are ineffective or your symptoms are severe, your doctor may refer you to a Gastroenterology specialist for further evaluation:

Gastroscopy: This involves using a thin, flexible tube with a camera to examine your oesophagus and stomach, identifying the cause of your symptoms.
Bacterial Tests: Tests may be conducted to check for bacteria that cause heartburn, treatable with antibiotics and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs).
Surgical Treatment: For persistent acid reflux, surgery may be recommended to enhance the function of the esophagus and prevent stomach acid from rising.

GERD Complications and Related Diseases

Barrett’s Oesophagus characterised by long-lasting GERD
Increased risk of oesophageal cancer
Inflammation of the vocal cords
Lung damage including pulmonary fibrosis and bronchiectasis
Blockage (stricture) of the oesophagus caused by scar tissues that develop due to recurrent ulcerations
Ulcers in the oesophagus caused by stomach acid burns

Comprehensive GERD Care at Gleneagles Penang

At Gleneagles Hospital Penang, we are dedicated to providing thorough diagnostic and treatment options for Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) and severe acid reflux. Our experienced specialists offer personalised care to help you manage symptoms, improve your quality of life, and prevent long-term complications. Whether you require lifestyle guidance, medication, or advanced treatments, Gleneagles Penang supports your journey to better digestive health.

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments