What is GERD?

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a chronic digestive disorder that affects the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), or the muscular valve connecting the stomach and esophagus. GERD occurs when the LES does not close properly or is weakened, allowing for acid and other contents from the stomach to flow back (reflux) up into the esophagus. Common symptoms of GERD include heartburn, acid reflux, chest pain and nausea. GERD can cause long-term damage to the esophagus and may even lead to more serious conditions such as inflammation, scarring and ulcers.

What Causes GERD?

GERD can be caused by a variety of factors. The main causes of GERD include lifestyle and dietary choices that can lead to the weakening of the LES and overproduction of stomach acid.

Lifestyle & Diet

Certain lifestyle and dietary habits can increase the risk of developing GERD. Smoking cigarettes, drinking excessive amounts of alcohol, and eating fatty, spicy, or citrus foods can all aggravate GERD symptoms. Eating large meals and lying down right after eating can both lead to acid reflux. Obesity can also increase risk for GERD due to the excess pressure on the stomach.

Medical Conditions

Certain medical conditions can also lead to GERD. Hiatus hernia, pregnancy, and diabetes are all medical conditions that can cause GERD. Hiatus hernia occurs when the top part of the stomach is pushed up into the chest, weakening the LES and making it difficult for food and acid to stay in the stomach. Pregnancy can cause GERD due to the hormonal changes, increasing the risk for acid reflux and weakening of the LES. Diabetes can lead to GERD by weakening the esophageal muscles, making it more difficult for stomach contents to descend down the esophagus.

Medication Use

Sometimes GERD can be a direct side effect of medication use. Certain medications such as calcium channel blockers, nitrates, and other drugs used to treat asthma, depression, and high blood pressure can lead to GERD symptoms.

Summary

GERD is a chronic digestive disorder caused by weakened and/or malfunctioning lower esophageal sphincter (LES). Common risk factors for increased risk of GERD include lifestyle and dietary choices (smoking, drinking, certain foods, obesity), medical conditions (hiatus hernia, pregnancy, diabetes), and specified medication use. GERD can cause long-term damage to the esophagus, and can lead to more serious conditions.