While the terms acid reflux, heartburn, and GERD are often used interchangeably, they have different meanings. If you are suffering from heartburn, acid reflux, or GERD you should see a doctor. With the current Coronavirus pandemic, going to the doctor may be scary, but with an online consultation from Bowie Internal Medicine, you can speak to a doctor about your concerns from the comfort of your own home!

Heartburn

Heartburn is a common issue affecting more than 60 million Americans. It occurs in your esophagus. When the avid from your stomach enters the esophagus, it causes a burning sensation. This usually results in mild to severe pain in the chest. The pain can be sharp, burning, or like a tightening sensation. It can even be mistaken as a heart attack.

 Typically, heartburn occurs after eating and is worsened by bending over or lying down. Losing weight, stopping smoking, eating fewer fatty foods, and avoiding spicy or acidic foods can help manage your heartburn. Along with dietary changes, you can use antacids to treat heartburn. These are available over the counter.

However, if you take antacids several times a week and are still experiencing heartburn, you should see your doctor. This is a sign that your heartburn may be a symptom of a more serious condition like acid reflux or GERD.

Acid Reflux

The lower esophageal sphincter is a circular muscle that joins the stomach and esophagus. If this muscle is weak or doesn’t tighten properly, acid from the stomach can move backwards into the esophagus. This is known as acid reflux. Acid reflux can cause heartburn, cough, sore throat, burning and pressure in the chest, as well as a sour or bitter taste in the mouth and throat.

GERD

When acid reflux occurs more than twice a week, or causes inflammation in the esophagus, it is considered GERD. This is a chronic form of acid reflux. If left untreated, the long-term damage to the esophagus can lead to cancer. Symptoms of GERD include:

• Bad breath

• Trouble swallowing

• Heartburn

• Asthma

• Chest pain

• Persistent dry cough

• Regurgitation

• Damage to tooth enamel due to excess acid

Heartburn and acid reflux may be experienced intermittently. This is usually related to diet or habits like lying down immediately after eating. On the contrary, GERD is a chronic condition. It may be caused by anatomy or habits. Some causes are:

• Smoking

• Being overweight or obese

• Hiatal hernia, which reduces pressure in the LES

• Pregnancy

• Consuming alcohol

Taking medicines known to weaken the LES such as antihistamines, calcium channel blockers, pain-relieving medicines, sedatives, and antidepressants.

While the symptoms of GERD are disruptive to daily life, they can be controlled with treatment. Diet, weight loss, smoking/alcohol cessation are great ways to manage your GERD. There are also medications to treat GERD. This includes antacids, H2 blockers, proton pump inhibitors and prokinetics. However, this isn’t effective for everyone. Some people require surgery to reinforce or repair the LES.

Complications of GERD

If GERD is not treated, it can damage the lining of the esophagus. This can cause ulcers, bleeding, and scarring. The acid can also change the cells in the esophagus over time, leading to Barrett’s esophagus. This condition is known to increase the risks of esophageal cancer.

Diagnosing GERD

Typically, a doctor will do a 24-hour impedance-probe study. This involves putting a flexible tube into your nose, and into the esophagus. It uses sensors to detect how often acid refluxes past the esophagus. Another test that can help your doctor diagnose GERD is the upper endoscopy. With this procedure, a special tube with a camera is placed into your mouth and stomach to identify signs of damage, inflammation, and ulcers.

Online Consultation

Not all heartburn requires medical care. However, if lifestyle changes and food avoidance does not help with your symptoms, it may be time to call your doctor. If you are suffering, or you suspect that your have GERD, don’t wait.  

At Bowie Internal Medicine you can have an online consultation with a doctor and receive medical guidance from the comfort of your home. Contact us today!