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Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) — Comprehensive Guide

A chronic disease in which gastric contents flow back into the esophagus, causing mucosal injury and symptoms.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Dahiliye (İç Hastalıkları) department. Book Appointment →

What is Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) — Comprehensive Guide?

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a chronic condition in which gastric contents flow back into the esophagus because of an incompetent lower esophageal sphincter. It affects roughly 20-25% of adults in Turkey and is a common reason for primary-care visits.

GERD has two main phenotypes: erosive reflux disease (mucosal injury on endoscopy) and non-erosive reflux disease (symptoms with normal endoscopy). Both forms have similar effects on quality of life. Complications include esophagitis, stricture, and Barrett esophagus.

Diagnosis is primarily clinical; in suspicious or complicated cases, endoscopy, 24-hour pH monitoring, or pH-impedance testing is performed. Long-term PPI therapy controls symptoms in most patients.

Symptoms

Retrosternal burning (heartburn), especially after meals and when lying down
Acid or bitter fluid rising into the mouth (regurgitation)
Difficulty or pain with swallowing
Chronic cough, wheezing, or hoarseness (atypical symptoms)
Globus sensation (foreign-body feeling in the throat)
Nighttime heartburn and cough that disrupt sleep
Dental enamel erosion (in chronic cases)

Risk Factors

Obesity and overweight (increased intra-abdominal pressure)
Hiatus hernia
Pregnancy
Smoking
Fatty and spicy foods, chocolate, caffeine, and alcohol
Lying down immediately after meals
Certain medications (calcium channel blockers, nitrates, anticholinergics)

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Persistent heartburn and regurgitation more than twice weekly
  • Difficulty swallowing or a sensation of food getting stuck
  • Accompanying involuntary weight loss
  • Bloody or black stool
  • Symptoms uncontrolled despite medication
  • Barrett-esophagus risk or family history

Treatment Methods

01
Lifestyle changes: weight loss, avoiding meals within 3 hours of bedtime, head-of-bed elevation
02
Proton pump inhibitors (omeprazole, esomeprazole): 4-8-week course, long-term if needed
03
H2 receptor antagonists (famotidine): for mild-to-moderate cases or as PPI adjunct
04
Alginate-containing antacids: for immediate relief
05
Endoscopic treatments or laparoscopic fundoplication: in drug-refractory cases
06
Regular endoscopic surveillance protocol if Barrett esophagus is present

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Dahiliye (İç Hastalıkları) department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.