Gastroesophageal reflux (GER) happens when stomach acid and bile flow back up into the esophagus. This causes heartburn, chest pain, and sometimes nausea and difficulty swallowing. GER is a common problem that affects millions of people worldwide.

In fact, up to 20% of adults experience it at least once a week.

What Causes GER?

GER occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), a ring of muscle that separates the esophagus from the stomach, is weakened or relaxed. This allows stomach acid and bile to flow back up into the esophagus, causing irritation and discomfort.

Several factors can cause the LES to weaken, including:.

Obesity
Pregnancy
Smoking
Alcohol consumption
Eating large meals, especially before bedtime
Hiatal hernia, a condition in which part of the stomach protrudes into the chest through the diaphragm

What Happens if GER Goes Untreated?

While occasional GER symptoms are common and usually harmless, chronic GER can lead to complications such as:.

Esophagitis

Esophagitis is inflammation of the esophagus, caused by GER. Symptoms include difficulty swallowing, chest pain, and bleeding. If left untreated, esophagitis can lead to ulcers, scarring, and difficulty swallowing food.

Barrett’s esophagus

Barrett’s esophagus occurs when the lining of the esophagus changes to resemble the lining of the stomach. This is a rare but serious complication of GER that increases the risk of developing esophageal cancer.

Symptoms include difficulty swallowing and vomiting blood.

Esophageal cancer

Esophageal cancer is a rare but serious complication of GER. Chronic GER can cause the lining of the esophagus to become damaged, leading to the development of cancer cells.

Symptoms include difficulty swallowing, chest pain, and unintentional weight loss.

How is GER Diagnosed?

If you are experiencing symptoms of GER, your doctor will likely perform diagnostic tests to determine the severity of the condition. Tests may include:.

X-rays
Esophageal manometry, a test to measure the pressure in the esophagus
Endoscopy, a procedure that allows the doctor to examine the inside of the esophagus and stomach using a thin tube with a camera

How is GER Treated?

The treatment for GER depends on the severity of the condition and the presence of complications. Treatment options may include:.

Lifestyle changes, such as losing weight, avoiding tight clothing, and eating smaller, more frequent meals
Medications to reduce stomach acid and relieve symptoms, such as antacids, H2 blockers, and proton pump inhibitors
Surgery to reinforce the LES and prevent stomach acid from flowing back into the esophagus

Conclusion

Gastroesophageal reflux is a common problem that affects millions of people worldwide.

While occasional GER symptoms are common and usually harmless, chronic GER can lead to serious complications such as esophagitis, Barrett’s esophagus, and esophageal cancer. If you are experiencing symptoms of GER, it is important to seek medical attention to determine the severity of the condition and the best course of treatment.