What kind of disease is gastroesophageal reflux disease?
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a disease caused by the reflux of stomach contents, including stomach acid, into the esophagus.
Of the GERD cases, those in which inflammation of the esophagus is seen during endoscopy (gastroscopy) are called reflux esophagitis.
Normally, food enters through the mouth and travels through the esophagus to the stomach and duodenum.
The lower part of the esophagus has a muscle called the lower esophageal sphincter that prevents reflux of stomach contents, but if this mechanism does not function properly for some reason, reflux can occur.
Stomach acid is a powerful acid, and the mucosa of the stomach is able to withstand stomach acid, but the mucosa of the esophagus does not have this mechanism and is inflamed by stomach acid.
Causes of reflux include obesity, overeating, fatty foods, alcohol, caffeine, carbonated beverages, smoking, and some drugs.
A hiatal hernia of the esophagus, a condition in which the stomach protrudes above the diaphragm, is also a known cause of GERD.
Prolonged reflux esophagitis can cause ulceration and stricture of the esophagus and in some cases increase the risk of esophageal cancer, so early diagnosis and treatment is important.
What are the symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease?
The main symptoms of GERD include heartburn, acid swallowing (sourness rising to the surface), and chest pain.
These symptoms are often worse after eating or while sleeping.
Other symptoms may include sore throat, coughing, discomfort when swallowing, and voice dryness.
In other cases, there may be no particular symptoms of reflux esophagitis on endoscopy.
What tests are performed if you suspect gastroesophageal reflux disease?
The basic test for suspected GERD is endoscopy.
On the other hand, if GERD is strongly suspected based on symptoms, medication that suppresses stomach acid secretion may be used first to monitor the patient.
Endoscopy is used to observe the presence or absence of inflammation of the mucosa and the degree of inflammation. The presence of a hiatal hernia can also be observed.
If a diagnosis cannot be made by gastric endoscopy, tests such as 24-hour esophageal pH monitoring and esophageal impedance and pH testing may be performed. In such cases, we will refer you to a specialized facility.
What is the treatment for gastroesophageal reflux disease?
When GERD is diagnosed, the first treatment is lifestyle modification and drug therapy.
Lifestyle modifications are important to correct the factors that cause reflux, specifically dietary restrictions (avoiding the above-mentioned reflux-causing foods), not lying down immediately after eating, and avoiding smoking and alcohol.
Drug therapy involves the use of medications that suppress stomach acid secretion. There are several types of drugs that suppress stomach acid secretion, and the most appropriate one is selected according to symptoms and progress.
Even if symptoms improve with lifestyle and drug therapy, they may recur if treatment is stopped immediately.
Medications may be required for a long period of time. In severe cases or when drug therapy is ineffective, surgery may be considered, in which case the patient will be referred to a specialized facility.
What are the tests and treatments for gastroesophageal reflux disease available at the Ikejiri-Ohashi Sera Clinic?
The clinic specializes in orthopedics, internal medicine, and sports medicine and can provide a variety of tests and treatments.
The treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease that can be performed at our clinic is as follows
Treatment: Dietary and lifestyle guidance, drug prescriptions
At our clinic, we provide careful care and a peaceful environment,
We are committed to alleviating your concerns and supporting the improvement of your health.
Please feel free to take a walk and consult with us at our clinic.