Gastro-oesophageal reflux occurs when stomach contents leak into the oesophagus. Inadequate function of the lower oesophageal sphincter is the main cause of this condition.
Symptoms
Heartburn (pyrosis), regurgitation (acid coming back into the mouth), chest pain, difficulty swallowing, chronic cough, hoarseness and throat irritation.
Complications
Untreated GORD can lead to oesophagitis, oesophageal stricture, Barrett's oesophagus (a precancerous condition) and oesophageal adenocarcinoma.
Diagnosis
Oesophagogastroscopy (OGS), 24-hour pH monitoring and oesophageal manometry are used for diagnosis.
Treatment
Lifestyle changes: Not eating 3 hours before bed, elevating the head of the bed, quitting smoking and alcohol, losing weight, avoiding fatty and spicy foods.
Medication: Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), H2 blockers, antacids.
Surgery: Laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication in refractory cases.