Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease

A common condition that our providers treat is gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Gastroesophageal reflux occurs when stomach juice moves in a backward direction and contacts the tissue of the esophagus.

In approximately 20% of the U.S. population, this event causes unwanted symptoms such as heartburn, acidic taste in the mouth, persistent cough, hoarse voice and difficulty swallowing. When left untreated for an extended period, reflux can ultimately lead to precancerous and cancerous changes.

Reflux events are more likely to occur when the barrier between the esophagus and stomach is compromised. Common examples, which result in a less than ideal barrier, include being overweight; consuming spicy and rich foods, cigarettes, or alcohol; a hiatal hernia and the hormonal changes of pregnancy.

The best way to treat your acid reflux is to lose weight, avoid eating more than four hours prior to bedtime, and minimize the bothersome foods and behaviors listed above. If symptoms persist despite these efforts, there are three main drug classes available both over the counter and by prescription. The drug classes include calcium carbonate containing medications (Tums, Rolaids), histamine 2 receptor blockers (famotidine, cimetidine) and proton pump inhibitors (pantoprazole, omeprazole, esomeprazole).

The severity and frequency of your symptoms dictates which type of medication is best for you. Additionally, like any medication, there are potential side effects, and these should be reviewed with your provider prior to extended use.

GERD is a risk factor for esophageal cancer. Long-term, uncontrolled exposure of acid to the esophagus results in genetic changes within the esophagus tissue that lead to esophageal cancer. A key role of your gastroenterologist in the prevention of esophageal cancer is to screen for Barrett’s esophagus.

Barrett’s esophagus is an intermediate step between normal tissue and esophageal cancer, which can be detected via endoscopy by taking a biopsy. When it is detected, there are treatment options available to remove these cells and their troublesome downstream effects.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease is a fairly common but complex disease. Effective management involves education, behavioral changes, and potentially conversations regarding medications and cancer screening with your gastroenterologist.

AAGA has been a pillar of the local health care community for over four decades, diagnosing and treating all symptoms and diseases associated with the GI tract (esophagus, stomach, small bowel, colon), pancreas, liver and gallbladder. Common symptoms and diseases include gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD); inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), including Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis; colon cancer prevention; Celiac disease; fatty liver and pancreatic inflammation; cysts and cancer. AAGA includes 10 physicians and six midlevel providers who are all taking new patients and are excited about caring for their community. Its main campus is located in Annapolis, with satellite offices located in Greenbelt, Odenton, Bowie, Pasadena and Kent Island. Visit www.aagastro.com or call 410-224-2116 to schedule an appointment.