What Is GERD?

Is it just heartburn or is it GERD?

Almost everyone will experience heartburn at some point, but it’s important to recognize when your heartburn might actually be something that warrants turning to our Manhattan & New York, NY, gastroenterologist Dr. Moshe Rubin for treatment. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a chronic digestive disorder that happens when stomach acid travels back up through the esophagus, causing irritation and other recurring problems.

Heartburn or GERD: How Do You Know the Difference?

Acid reflux is when the acid in your stomach travels back up your throat. Acid reflux is also responsible for heartburn. As acid travels up into the esophagus, it can cause a burning or gnawing feeling in your chest or throat. On the other hand, GERD is a more serious type of acid reflux that occurs two or more times a week. GERD happens when the sphincter of the esophagus weakens and can no longer prevent acid from flowing back up into the throat.

Why is GERD a Problem?

While the occasional bout of heartburn is probably not something to worry about, the problem occurs when you deal with heartburn several times a week. Over time, untreated or improperly treated GERD can lead to further complications including,

• Esophagitis
• Narrowing of the esophagus
• Pre-cancer, known as Barrett’s Esophagus
• Asthma
• Ulcers

How is GERD Treated?

If you have GERD, simply treating it with over-the-counter heartburn medications isn’t going to be enough. If you look at the label of your favorite heartburn drugs you may notice that it says not to take them for more than two weeks at a time. If this is something you’re currently doing, this is a sign it’s time to visit our Manhattan & New York, NY, gastroenterologist to find out if you have GERD, and to get a treatment plan.

GERD can often be controlled with prescription medications (the most common ones are H-2 receptor blockers and proton pump inhibitors) and lifestyle changes; however, in more severe cases, surgery may be necessary to repair the weakened sphincter.

If you suspect that your heartburn could be caused by GERD, our Manhattan & New York, NY, gastroenterologist Dr. Rubin can perform a thorough evaluation to diagnose and treat the issues that you’re dealing with. To schedule an appointment, call us at (212) 772-1012.