The Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD) This is a common digestive disorder in which stomach acid rises into the oesophagus, causing symptoms such as ardour, regurgitation chest discomfort.
It can appear occasionally or recur over time, affecting the quality of life. It has treatment and, with an adequate diagnosis, it is usually effectively controlled.
What is
The ERGE it occurs when stomach contents repeatedly rise up into the oesophagus, causing Irritation, nuisance burning sensation.
This happens because the mechanism that stops acid from coming up isn't working properly. That's why symptoms can appear such as ardour, regurgitation A feeling of stomach content returning up into the throat or mouth.
Symptoms
- Burning or acidity. A burning sensation in the chest that can travel up to the throat.
- Regurgitation. Regurgitation of acidic contents or food into the mouth.
- Chest discomfort. Feeling of pressure or discomfort unrelated to the heart.
- Throat symptoms. Clearing the throat, coughing, or a feeling of a lump.
When to see a doctor
- If the symptoms are frequent. They appear several times a week.
- If they don't improve with standard treatment. They persist despite basic medication.
- If they interfere in your day-to-day. They affect rest or meals.
- If there is difficulty swallowing or weight loss
Causes
- Oesophageal sphincter malfunction. It does not correctly prevent the passage of acid.
- Hiatal hernia. It favours the reflux of gastric content.
- Acid hypersecretion. High production of acid in the stomach.
- Movement disorders. Problems with oesophageal movement.
Risk factors
- Overweight or obesity. Increase abdominal pressure.
- Eating habits. Hearty, fatty meals, chocolate; associated consumption of alcohol, coffee, fizzy drinks.
- Tobacco or alcohol. They favour reflux.
- Stress. It can worsen the perception of symptoms.
Complications
When reflux persists over time, it can lead to oesophagitis, known as oesophagitis, as well as narrowings or mucosal changes, such as Barrett's oesophagus.
These complications do not appear in all patients, but they make a necessary adequate diagnosis and individualised follow-up when symptoms are persistent.
Diagnosis
The diagnosis is based on the clinical assessment of the symptoms and, when necessary, on specific tests there once was Gastroscopy Hello pH measurement. These allow for confirmation of the presence of reflux and assessment of its impact on the oesophagus.
Treatment
Treatment depends on the cause and the severity of the symptoms. It may include dietary measures, Changes in lifestyle y Farmacological treatment. In some cases, more specific techniques are used when symptoms persist or do not respond to usual options.
Forecast
The prognosis for GERD is usually favourable in most cases, especially when correctly identified and the appropriate treatment is followed.
Many patients achieve good symptom control and maintain a good quality of life.. However, when symptoms are persistent, follow-up may be required to avoid complications and to adjust treatment as it progresses.
Prevention
Some measures can help reduce or prevent the onset of symptoms:
- Avoid heavy or very fatty meals.
- Don't lie down immediately after eating.
- Maintain a healthy weight.
- Moderate alcohol and tobacco consumption.
These guidelines can help, though they don't always prevent the problem. Therefore, if symptoms persist, it is advisable to seek specialist valuation.
Which specialists treat her?
Preguntas frecuentes
No. GORD involves repeated or persistent symptoms, not one-off discomfort.
Not always, but it can lead to complications if not managed properly.
In many cases, it can be well controlled with treatment and monitoring.
It depends on the case, but when the symptoms are persistent, they are usually necessary.