What is Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease? Exploring the Underlying Causes of GERD

What is Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease? Exploring the Underlying Causes of GERD

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) is a common medical condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It’s characterised by the chronic backflow of stomach contents into the oesophagus, leading to a range of uncomfortable and sometimes severe symptoms. Here, the best gastroenterologist in Bangalore, at Apollo Hospitals will help you understand the mechanics of GERD, its symptoms, and most importantly, help you explore the underlying causes that contribute to this condition.

Understanding GERD: The Mechanics

Before delving into the causes of GERD, it’s important to grasp the mechanics of how the condition occurs. The oesophagus is a muscular tube that carries food and liquids from the mouth to the stomach. At the lower end of the oesophagus is a circular muscle called the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), which acts as a barrier to prevent stomach acid from flowing back into the oesophagus.

In individuals with GERD, this barrier mechanism becomes compromised, allowing stomach acid and even partially digested food to escape back into the oesophagus. This is often accompanied by a feeling of heartburn, regurgitation, chest pain, and other discomforting symptoms.

Common Symptoms of GERD

A surgical gastroenterologist in Bangalore enlists the most common signs of GERD that helps in early detection.

Heartburn: A burning sensation in the chest, usually after eating or at night.

Regurgitation: The feeling of food or stomach acid coming back up into the mouth.

Chest Pain: This can sometimes be mistaken for a heart attack due to its severity.

Difficulty Swallowing: Known as dysphagia, it can be caused by narrowing of the oesophagus.

Chronic Cough: Caused by stomach acid irritating the nerves in the lower oesophagus.

Hoarseness or Sore Throat: Again, the result of stomach acid affecting the throat.

Exploring the Underlying Causes

Several factors can contribute to the development of GERD. It’s often the result of a combination of these factors, rather than a single cause. Here are some key underlying causes:

Weak Lower Esophageal Sphincter (LES): If the LES muscle is weak or relaxes inappropriately, it can allow stomach acid to flow back into the oesophagus, causing GERD symptoms.

Hiatal Hernia: This occurs when part of the stomach pushes up through the diaphragm muscle into the chest cavity. Hiatal hernias can weaken the LES, making it easier for stomach acid to flow into the oesophagus.

Dietary Factors: Certain foods and beverages can trigger or exacerbate GERD symptoms. These include fatty and fried foods, citrus fruits, tomatoes, chocolate, caffeine, and alcohol.

Obesity: Excess body weight, especially around the abdomen, can put pressure on the stomach and LES, promoting reflux.

Pregnancy: Hormonal changes and pressure on the stomach during pregnancy can contribute to GERD.

Smoking: Smoking weakens the LES and reduces saliva production, which normally helps neutralise stomach acid.

Certain Medications: Some medications, such as certain asthma medications, sedatives, and calcium channel blockers, can relax the LES or irritate the oesophagus lining.

Lifestyle Modifications and Treatment

Managing GERD often involves a combination of lifestyle changes, medication, and in severe cases, surgery. Lifestyle modifications include:

• Dietary Changes: Avoid trigger foods, eat smaller meals, and avoid lying down after eating.
• Weight Management: Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight can reduce pressure on the stomach.
• Elevating the Head of the Bed: This can help prevent stomach acid from flowing back into the oesophagus during sleep.
• Quitting Smoking: If applicable, quitting smoking can significantly improve GERD symptoms.

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease is a prevalent condition that can significantly impact a person’s quality of life. Understanding the underlying causes is crucial for effective management and prevention. By making informed lifestyle choices, seeking medical advice from the doctors at the best Gastroenterology Hospital in Bangalore, like Apollo Hospitals, and following a comprehensive treatment plan, individuals with GERD can find relief from their symptoms and enjoy a better quality of life. If you suspect you have GERD or are experiencing persistent symptoms, consulting a healthcare professional is recommended for accurate diagnosis and personalised guidance.