What Is GERD?
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Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a chronic digestive condition in which stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing irritation and inflammation. While occasional heartburn affects many people, GERD is diagnosed when reflux symptoms occur regularly — typically more than twice per week — or when reflux causes measurable damage to the esophagus.
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GERD is one of the most common GI conditions in the United States, affecting approximately 20% of adults. At Advanced Gastroenterology Group, our physicians have extensive experience diagnosing and treating GERD across all severity levels.
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GERD Symptoms
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Persistent burning sensation in the chest (heartburn), especially after eating or when lying down
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Regurgitation of food or sour-tasting liquid into the mouth or throat
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Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) or a feeling of food sticking
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Chronic cough, hoarseness, or sore throat not explained by other causes
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Sensation of a lump in the throat (globus sensation)
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Disrupted sleep due to reflux symptoms​
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Causes and Risk Factors
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GERD occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter — a ring of muscle that acts as a valve between the esophagus and stomach — weakens or relaxes abnormally. Risk factors include obesity, pregnancy, hiatal hernia, smoking, certain medications (NSAIDs, calcium channel blockers), and dietary triggers (fatty foods, coffee, alcohol, chocolate, citrus).
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Diagnosing GERD
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Many cases of GERD are diagnosed based on symptoms and response to a trial of medication. For patients with atypical symptoms, treatment-resistant reflux, or alarm features such as difficulty swallowing or weight loss, an upper endoscopy (EGD) is recommended to evaluate the esophagus directly. Additional testing may include esophageal pH monitoring or esophageal manometry.
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GERD Complications
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Untreated or undertreated GERD can lead to serious complications: esophagitis (inflammation and erosion), esophageal strictures, and Barrett's esophagus — a precancerous change in the esophageal lining that significantly increases the risk of esophageal adenocarcinoma. Patients with long-standing GERD should be evaluated for Barrett's esophagus by a gastroenterologist.
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GERD Treatment
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Treatment is individualized based on symptom severity and endoscopic findings. Options include: lifestyle and dietary modifications (weight loss, elevating the head of the bed, avoiding trigger foods), over-the-counter antacids and H2 blockers, prescription proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), and in refractory cases, surgical or endoscopic anti-reflux procedures.
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Book a GERD Consultation in NJ — Call (908) 851-2770 or Schedule Online