Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is the excessive flow of stomach acid into the esophagus, which can damage the esophagus and other parts of the body. Severe and/or frequent heartburn is the main symptom of this condition. GERD can create harmful complications in the body if left untreated.
The esophagus is used for swallowing, and people with GERD experience heartburn as their main symptom, often right after a meal. Food aggravates this condition, but not necessarily spicy food, although spicy food can worsen symptoms in some patients. Food fills the stomach and the stomach produces more stomach acid. The esophageal sphincter, which is shaped like a door and is located in the lower section of the esophagus, is supposed to remain closed and only open when liquids or food are ingested. However, in many GERD patients, the esophageal sphincter "relaxes" more than it should, letting in excess stomach acid.
Stomach acid easily escapes from the relaxed esophageal sphincter; this escape or flow is called "reflux". Heartburn occurs when stomach acid creates a burning sensation. Some people with GERD also experience coughing, wheezing, or asthma because stomach acid connects to the lungs. Inflammation of the vocal cords resulting in hoarseness can also be a symptom. Stomach acid is very strong and can erode tooth enamel, as some people experience backflow of stomach acid into the mouth.
The US Department of Health and Human Services estimates that seven million Americans have GERD. Anyone can develop this condition, but it is most common in people between the ages of 40 and 64. Almost everyone will have or have experienced heartburn, but not all heartburn is related to GERD. The term has been used for 20 years, but is still not commonly known by some doctors.
A hiatal hernia is sometimes confused with GERD, but it is not the same thing. A hiatal hernia is a dislocated stomach. GERD patients may also have a hiatal hernia if they have complications of the condition, such as erosive esophagitis. Erosive esophagitis is a ruptured esophageal lining. Other complications include esophageal stricture or narrowing of the esophagus and esophageal ulcer.