Acid reflux from the stomach into the oesophagus is known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GER). Recurrent symptoms or persistent issues resulting from gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) are signs of a more severe and chronic form of the disorder.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) occurs when stomach acid regularly runs back up into the oesophagus, the tube that connects the mouth and stomach. This backwash, known as acid reflux, can irritate the oesophageal lining.

Many people get acid reflux from time to time. However, when acid reflux occurs consistently over time, it can lead to GERD.

Most people can alleviate the symptoms of GERD with lifestyle modifications and medications. Even though it is uncommon, some people may require surgery to alleviate symptoms. You can reach out to Apollo Multispeciality Hospitals Kolkata,  or consult the best gastroenterologist in Kolkata, for treatment.

Let's read to learn more.

Acid reflux occurs when the lower oesophageal sphincter muscle (LES) relaxes at the incorrect moment, enabling stomach acid to back up into the oesophagus. This might lead to heartburn and other symptoms. Frequent or persistent reflux might result in GERD. 

Here are the major causes that lead to GERD:

This occurs when the top of your stomach pushes up through the opening in your diaphragm through which your oesophagus flows. It squeezes in adjacent to your oesophagus, pressing it and trapping acid. It also elevates your LES above the diaphragm, where it loses some muscle support. Hiatal hernias are quite prevalent, particularly as you become older. 

This is one of the reasons that increases the pressure and volume in your abdomen, which affects your LES.

Tobacco smoke leads to the relaxation of your LES. Smoking also causes coughing, which opens the LES. Smoking and persistent coughing can weaken the diaphragm muscles, contributing to the development of a hiatal hernia. Smoking also slows the digestion process and increases stomach acid production.

During pregnancy, there are frequent chances of transient acid reflux in women. The pressure and volume in your belly can compress, strain, and weaken the diaphragmatic muscles that support the LES. Pregnancy increases levels of the hormone relaxin, which allows your muscles to expand to make room for the foetus. It also increases the amounts of oestrogen and progesterone, which may relax your LES.

Common symptoms of GERD include:

● Heartburn, which is a burning sensation in the chest, usually happens after a meal

● Regurgitation of sour liquid in the throat

● Pain in the upper belly or chest region

● Difficulty in swallowing, which is also called dysphagia

● Sore throat or sensation of a lump in the throat

If you are experiencing night-time acid reflux, you also might have:

● An ongoing cough condition

● Inflammation of the vocal cords, also known as laryngitis

● New or worsening asthma-like symptoms

Furthermore, there are some possible complications associated with GERD:

● Esophagitis

● Barrett's oesophagus

● Laryngopharyngeal reflux

● Oesophageal stricture

● Asthma

You may be able to handle the symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux (GER) or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) by making lifestyle modifications or opting for over-the-counter medicines like antacids (neutralise your stomach acid) or alginates (naturally occurring sugars derived from seaweed). Other than that, medical professionals may prescribe medications like:

● Histamine receptor antagonists (H2 blockers)

● Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs)

● Muscle relaxants

If you’re experiencing signs of GERD, contact Apollo Multispeciality Hospitals Kolkata, or consult the top gastroenterologist in Kolkata and learn about excellent digestive health treatments. Apollo's skilled gastroenterologists can provide individualised treatment programs to address a variety of digestive disorders. To receive individualised care from the best gastroenterologist in Kolkata, schedule an appointment right now.