Gastroesophageal reflux disease, commonly known as GERD, is a condition in which the contents of the stomach flow back into the esophagus, causing symptoms such as heartburn, chest pain, and regurgitation.

It affects millions of people worldwide and can severely impact their quality of life. Treatment options for GERD range from lifestyle changes to medication and surgical intervention. However, surgery is not always the only option. Let’s take a closer look at GERD and the different treatment options available.

What Causes GERD?

GERD is caused due to a weak lower esophageal sphincter (LES) muscle. The LES is a ring of muscle that separates the esophagus and stomach.

It opens to allow food to pass into the stomach, and then closes to prevent stomach contents from flowing back into the esophagus. When the muscle is weakened or relaxed, it can’t effectively prevent the stomach contents from moving back into the esophagus, causing acid reflux.

Lifestyle Changes

Making changes to your lifestyle can help alleviate symptoms of GERD, such as:.

Eating smaller, frequent meals
Avoiding trigger foods such as chocolate, citrus, and spicy foods
Not lying down immediately after eating
Elevating the head of the bed about 6-8 inches
Quitting smoking
Losing weight

These changes reduce the pressure on the LES, preventing the stomach contents from flowing back into the esophagus. Lifestyle changes should be the first step in managing GERD.

Medication

If lifestyle changes are not enough to alleviate symptoms, medication may be prescribed. These medications include:.

Antacids: These neutralize stomach acid and provide quick relief from heartburn.
H2 blockers: These reduce the amount of acid production in the stomach and are useful for people with mild to moderate GERD.
Proton pump inhibitors: These drugs inhibit the production of acid in the stomach and provide long-term relief from GERD symptoms.
Prokinetics: These improve the digestive system’s ability to move food from the stomach to the small intestine, reducing the likelihood of reflux.

Medication can be used to relieve symptoms of GERD and provide relief. However, they do not treat the underlying cause of the condition and may cause side effects.

Long-term use of proton pump inhibitors has been linked to an increased risk of bone fractures and kidney disease.

Surgery

Surgery is only recommended for people with severe GERD that does not respond to lifestyle changes or medication. It is also an option for people who do not want to take long-term medication or experience significant side effects of medication.

The most common surgical procedure for GERD is called Nissen fundoplication. This procedure involves tightening the LES by wrapping the upper part of the stomach around the lower part of the esophagus.

It prevents stomach contents from moving back into the esophagus. The procedure is done under general anesthesia and requires a hospital stay of a few days. Nissen fundoplication is highly effective, with more than 90% of people experiencing relief from symptoms.

Another surgical option is LINX Reflux Management System. It works by placing a small, flexible band of magnets around the LES, strengthening it and preventing stomach contents from flowing back into the esophagus.

This procedure is less invasive and requires a shorter recovery time compared to Nissen fundoplication. It is suitable for people who do not have a hiatal hernia and can’t take PPIs due to side effects.

Conclusion

GERD is a common condition that can significantly impact a person’s quality of life. Fortunately, treatment options are available, ranging from lifestyle changes to medication and surgery.

Surgery is not always the only option and is only recommended for people with severe GERD that does not respond to other treatments. It is essential to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the best treatment option for you.