Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease II: Clinical Features and Management

GERD manifests with the following symptoms: Heartburn, or pyrosis, is an intermittent burning sensation that occurs from the sternum to the throat due to stomach acid irritating the esophagus.

It is often accompanied by regurgitation, where a hot, bitter, or sour liquid backs up into the throat or mouth.

GERD-related chest pain can mimic angina, presenting as a burning, squeezing, or radiating sensation that may spread to the back, neck, jaw, or arms.

Other symptoms include dyspepsia, dysphagia, hypersalivation, and esophagitis.

To diagnose GERD, healthcare providers review the patient's history, diet, and lifestyle and perform a physical examination.

Diagnostic tests like ambulatory pH monitoring and esophagogastroduodenoscopy detect esophageal inflammation.

Barium contrast X-rays can also reveal abnormalities.

Managing GERD involves lifestyle changes such as quitting alcohol, losing weight, and avoiding late-night eating.

Medications like proton pump inhibitors and histamine receptor blockers are prescribed for symptom relief.

If other treatments fail, surgical interventions like Nissen and Toupet fundoplication are performed.