CONDITIONS TREATED

Gastro-Oesophageal Reflux Disorder

What is Gastro-Oesophageal Reflux Disorder?
Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD) is a common illness in which stomach acid spills into the oesophagus. It is usually caused by a weakening of the ring of muscle at the bottom of the oesophagus. When stomach acid spills from the stomach and flows up into the oesophagus, GORD ensues. This is also referred to as "reflux."

Almost everyone experiences heartburn at some point in their lives due to acid reflux. When it occurs more than twice a week, it is classified as GORD. It can develop into more significant health problems and hurt one's well-being and quality of life. Self-help and medication are frequently effective in the treatment of GORD. Surgery to address the condition may be required in some cases.

GORD Causes

The most common cause of GORD is an issue with the lower oesophageal sphincter (LOS). This is the muscle that wraps around the bottom of the oesophagus and keeps the stomach's contents from rising back up. The LOS can deteriorate and fail to shut adequately. Acid can then flow into the oesophagus, causing symptoms like heartburn.
GORD is more common in people who:

  • Are obese
  • Eat foods that have a high-fat content
  • Consume alcohol
  • Consume caffeine
  • Eat chocolate
  • Drink alcohol
  • Are pregnant
  • Have connective tissue disorders
  • Have a hiatus hernia
  • Have gastroparesis
  • Have stress
  • Take certain medicines

GORD Symptoms

  • Heartburn
  • Chest pain
  • Regurgitation
  • Swallowing difficulties
  • Persistent cough
  • Wheezing
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Gum disease
  • Tooth decay
  • Bad breath
  • Bloating
  • Throat pain
  • Laryngitis
  • Bad taste

GORD Treatments

The following are the most common GORD treatments:

  • Self-help measures
    • Avoiding food that triggers symptoms
    • Weight loss
    • Reduction in alcohol consumption
    • Quit smoking
    • Eat smaller, more frequent meals
    • Eating 2-3 hours before bed
    • Avoid lying down after eating
    • Elevate head in bed
  • Medicines

Surgery

GORD Complications

Stomach acid can damage your oesophagus and lead to more difficulties if you have GORD for an extended period.

Among these difficulties are:

  • Oesophageal ulcers
  • Oesophageal stricture
  • Barrett’s oesophagus
  • Oesophageal cancer

FAQ:

1. Is GORD a serious illness?

It may be a minor annoyance for some, but it can be a severe and lifelong issue for others.

2. Is GORD painful?

Stomach acid, which can leak into the oesophagus due to GORD, can damage the oesophagus lining, causing oesophagitis and ulcers. Ulcers can bleed, causing pain and making swallowing difficult.

3. Are GORD and GERD the same thing?

Yes, the difference lies in the different spellings of oesophageal.

 
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