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gastroesophageal reflux disease |
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gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)Disorder characterized by frequent passage of gastric contents from the stomach back into the esophagus. Symptoms of GERD may include heartburn, coughing, frequent clearing of the throat, and difficulty in swallowing. It can be caused by relaxation of the muscle that connects the esophagus and the stomach, delayed emptying of the esophagus or stomach, hiatal hernia, obesity, or pregnancy. Treatment is with antacids or acid-inhibiting medications and lifestyle changes such as not eating before bedtime, avoiding acidic or fatty foods or beverages, cessation of smoking, and weight loss. Surgery may be necessary in severe cases. How to thank TFD for its existence? Tell a friend about us, add a link to this page, add the site to iGoogle, or visit webmaster's page for free fun content. |
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Changes in diet, body weight, or environmental exposures, all of which may be associated with both esophageal reflux and the transition to an industrialized lifestyle, might likewise explain the rise, he says. People with severe, chronic esophageal reflux or with symptoms not relieved by the treatment described above may need more complete diagnostic evaluation. The results of a video-fluoroscopic swallow study were normal (no evidence of a cricopharyngeal bar), and pH probe testing was negative for pharyngeal and esophageal reflux. |
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