Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) affects about 20% of the population in the United States. If you struggle with ongoing heartburn and need relief, turn to Mirage Health in Chandler or Mesa, Arizona. Board-certified gastroenterologist Rajiv Sharma, MD, and the team diagnose and treat GERD to ease your symptoms and avoid complications. Schedule an in-person or virtual appointment by calling the nearest office or using the online booking feature today.

What is GERD?

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a common gastrointestinal (GI) condition associated with acid reflux. 

It’s caused by the stomach acid inside your stomach moving up into your esophagus, irritating and inflaming its lining. While nearly everyone experiences heartburn from time to time, ongoing reflux can feel uncomfortable and lead to complications when left untreated. 

What are the symptoms of GERD?

Examples of GERD symptoms include:

• Heartburn
• Indigestion
• Stomach pain
• Chest pain
• Burning or sore throat
• Backwash
• Sour taste in your mouth
• Nausea 
• Coughing

Your symptoms may become worse after lying down, bending over, drinking alcohol, smoking, or eating a fatty, greasy, or large meal. 

What are the risk factors for GERD?

GERD risk factors include:

• Pregnancy
• Hiatal hernia
• Smoking
• Obesity
• Connective tissue disorders
• Previous surgery
• Some medications 
• Fatty or fried foods
• Overeating
• Late-night meals
• Delayed stomach emptying
• Alcohol 
• Coffee

Left untreated, GERD can increase your risk of esophagus inflammation, a narrowed esophagus, or precancerous changes in your esophagus (Barrett’s esophagus). 

How is GERD diagnosed?

Your Mirage Health provider discusses your medical history, reviews your symptoms, and completes a physical exam to determine if you have GERD. 

You might undergo an imaging procedure, upper endoscopy, esophageal pH test, esophagus function testing, or other diagnostic tests to determine the severity of your condition and how to best treat it. 

How is GERD treated?

Your customized GERD treatment plan may consist of:

• Weight loss
• Dietary changes 
• Lifestyle modifications
• Eliminating alcohol and tobacco
• Medications
• Surgery

Several surgeries are available to tighten your esophageal sphincter and help prevent stomach acid from entering your esophagus. You might be a candidate for surgery if conservative options haven’t worked to ease discomfort or your symptoms are extreme.

You might try eating smaller meals, reducing acidic and fatty foods, elevating the head of your bed, avoiding late-night eating, wearing loose-fitting clothing, and sleeping on your left side. Follow up with the Mirage Health team anytime with questions about your GERD treatment. 

Don’t live with unpleasant or painful GERD symptoms when relief is within reach at Mirage Health. Schedule an in-person or virtual appointment by calling the office or requesting an evaluation online today.