Gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, is unique for a number of reasons. For one, an individual may be suffering from this ailment without even knowing, because of the different kinds of symptoms. It is also unique in that it affects anyone, no matter what their gender is, of any age and of any race.

GERD occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter, or LES, does not close properly and the stomach’s contents leak back, or reflux, into the esophagus. The LES is a ring of muscle at the bottom of the esophagus that acts like a valve between the esophagus and stomach. The esophagus carries food from the mouth to the stomach. When refluxed stomach acid touches the lining of the esophagus, it causes a burning sensation in the chest or throat called heartburn. The fluid may even be tasted in the back of the mouth, and this is called acid indigestion. Occasional heartburn is common but does not necessarily mean one has GERD. Heartburn that occurs more than twice a week may be considered GERD, and it can eventually lead to more serious health problems.

GERD affects an estimated one-third of the country’s population. The most common symptom of this digestive disease is heartburn, a burning sensation burning sensation located under the breast bone that occurs after eating or at night. Some patients experience regurgitation of partially digested food into the back of the throat, a process that is distinctly different from forceful vomiting. Some symptoms that are less common include sore throat, hoarseness, a sour taste in the back of the throat, and breathing difficulties similar to asthma. Certain kinds of food, such as greasy or fried foods, chocolate, peppermint, carbonated drinks, ketchup and other tomato products and citrus fruits and juices, can worsen this condition. Certain factors such as obesity, weak muscular contractions in the esophagus, exercise, pregnancy, smoking, certain hormones and some medications can aggravate the disease.

Individuals seeking to alleviate the discomfort associated with GERD or should follow certain guidelines of behavior modification to avoid the serious consequences that can accompany the illness. Those suffering from the persistent burning associated with GERD could benefit substantially from weight loss and should avoid wearing tight or restrictive clothing. It’s also recommended that they avoid eating for several hours before going to sleep at night to keep the stomach empty and reduce reflux activity. Some people benefit from elevating the head of the bed 6 to 8 inches above the foot of the bed, allowing gravity to help prevent reflux episodes. Most people get adequate relief from over-the-counter medications but if these fail to provide relief, prescription medications may be necessary to further suppress stomach acid production. Another option is surgery but more than 95% of patients with GERD get sufficient relief from lifestyle changes and medical therapy and do not require surgery.

Studies show that GERD is common and may be overlooked in infants and children. It can cause repeated vomiting, coughing, and other respiratory problems. Children's immature digestive systems are usually to blame, and most infants grow out of GERD by the time they are one year old. Still, a physician should be contacted if the problem occurs regularly and causes discomfort. A doctor may recommend simple strategies for avoiding reflux, like burping the infant several times during feeding or keeping the infant in an upright position for 30 minutes after feeding. If the child is older, the doctor may recommend avoiding sodas that contain caffeine, chocolate and peppermint, spicy foods like pizza, acidic foods like oranges and tomatoes, and fried and fatty foods. Avoiding food two to three hours before bed may also help.