Acid Reflux Disease 101: Things You Need To Know About GERD

In any given day there are about 36% to 44% of Americans who suffer recurring heartburn.  The average recurrence from among these sufferers would at least be once a month and 7% of these have heartburn on a daily basis.  Out of this figure, two out of ten adults have or will be suffering acid reflux disease or GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease).  These records could be of no consequence to some, but for those who are suffering frequent attacks of heartburn, or are wary of acid reflux disease, it would be a good reminder for them to start modifying their diet and start some lifestyle changes.

The most common occurrence that is associated with gastroesophageal reflux disease or acid reflux disease is heartburn.  This is when you experience the burning sensation of pain in the area in your chest towards the throat.  Note that other more serious complications may result from chronic heartburn such as esophageal inflammation or esophagitis, dysphagia, other problems with the throat which may become life threatening such as cancer. 

Although doctors can easily diagnose acid reflux disease, people who suffer chronic heartburn go on for years without seeing and consulting a doctor about this problem. Chronic acid reflux disease that goes on for around five years could prove disastrous for some.  Reluctance to seek medical attention to this problem either because of the person’s hectic schedule, or simply because of total neglect, early prevention to possible severe complications are simply missed.

The sufferer’s desire to get rid of this condition (heartburn, waking up at night gagging, discomfort, etc.) is the first step to cure.  A visit to a physician could very well inform the patient of the severity of the case, and could prescribe the necessary remedy.  In most cases, the doctor may warrant the use of over-the-counter medication or, if the case is sever, some prescription medication for more potent reduction of stomach acid.  However, while this may eliminate symptoms of acid reflux disease, validation of a disorder could best be arrived at with several other thorough testing such as endoscopy.  This is the insertion of a very thin tube, with a light and camera at the tip, into the patient’s esophagus to physically check for some abnormalities.  

Other methods of diagnosing for severe complications that may have resulted from chronic acid reflux disease are x-rays, gastric emptying and acid perfusion exams.  Biopsies and x-rays are also two of the usual methods for this.  

Two of the most standard testing methods for acid reflux disease are:

•     Esophageal acid test – this is used to check the acidity inside the esophagus for 24 hours.  A catheter is inserted, passing through the nose, into the esophagus.  The sensor at the tip of the catheter checks for the PH balance or acidity of the esophagus.  This could be very uncomfortable since for 24 hours, the patient will be monitoring for acid reflux.  Each time the patient experiences heartburn, the monitor attached to his waist and the other end through his nose, will check for PH.
•    Esophageal motility test – this test determines the health of the esophageal muscles.  If there are abnormal contractions, this could create discomfort like heartburn even though there is no acid reflux disease.