Nearly all of us have experienced heartburn on an occasional basis, but if you are feeling the burn more than twice a week, you could have gastroesophageal reflux disease, one of the most common gastrointestinal diseases. In fact, it’s estimated that 20% of us in Southwest Florida have GERD.
“It can be challenging to tell the difference between acid reflux, heartburn and GERD,” says Dr. Randall Jacobs, a board-certified gastroenterologist with Physicians Regional Medical Group. “Reflux is the underlying problem — muscles in the stomach, esophagus and diaphragm relax, allowing acid to flow back up the esophagus from the stomach, and heartburn is a symptom of reflux.”
The tell-tale burning sensation occurs because, unlike the stomach, the esophagus is not protected by a mucous lining, and long-term exposure to stomach acid can cause tissue damage. GERD can be generally characterized as having frequent reflux (two or more times per week) and can lead to issues like esophageal inflammation, narrowing of the esophagus from scar tissue, or even esophageal cancer.
Anyone can develop GERD, but those who are overweight, pregnant, smoke or take medications such as antihistamines, painkillers or antidepressants may be more at-risk.
For infrequent reflux and heartburn, lifestyle changes and diet choices can help. Limit caffeine, carbonated or alcoholic beverages, chocolate, citrus and tomato products, greasy foods and spicy foods, as they can be linked to reflux. Smaller meals, eating more slowly, and not eating too close to bedtime also help decrease heartburn symptoms.
Over-the-counter medications can provide relief, but Jacobs says if you need medication more than twice a week, especially after making dietary changes, it may be time to see a physician for evaluation.
The American College of Gastroenterology offers the following questions to help determine severity of your heartburn and reflux.
. Do you frequently have an uncomfortable feeling behind the breast bone, a burning sensation in the back of your throat, or a bitter acid taste in your mouth?
. Do you often experience these problems after meals?
. Do you experience heartburn or indigestion more than twice a week?
. Do you find that antacids only provide temporary relief?
. Are you taking prescription medicine to treat heartburn, but still having symptoms?
If the answer to two or more of these is “yes,” seeing a physician is recommended.
“GERD also may play a role in asthma symptoms, chronic cough or ear, nose and throat problems,” Jacobs said. “The good news is that it’s controllable with minor intervention in most cases.”
Jacobs provides care for all gastrointestinal disorders and has extensive experience in Barrett’s Esophagus (a form of GERD).
To make an appointment, call (239) 393-8805 or visit PhysiciansRegionalGastro.com.