What is Gastro-Oesophageal Reflux Disease (GORD)?
Gastro-Oesophageal Reflux Disease (GORD), also known as heartburn, reflux or indigestion, is very common.
What are the symptoms of GORD?
Common symptoms of GORD include chest pain, including a burning feeling, and difficulty swallowing. More concerning symptoms include weight loss, pain with swallowing or vomiting. If these are present, or you do not respond to medication, your doctor may want to conduct an endoscopy to look at your oesophagus.
What causes GORD?
Reflux happens when stomach acid rises up into the oesophagus.
Certain foods can make reflux worse, such as:
- large and/or fatty meals,
- chocolate,
- coffee and alcohol,
- cigarettes,
- cola drinks, and
- peppermint
Weakening of the lower oesophageal sphincter may also cause reflux. This is more common in people who:
- consume lots of fatty foods,
- consume lots of tobacco, alcohol, coffee or chocolate,
- are pregnant,
- are feeling stressed,
- have connective tissue disorder, or
- have a hiatus hernia.
What treatment options are available?
The treatment will depend on the severity of your reflux. Most people will respond to antacids, which neutralise the acid in the stomach. Others may need medication to reduce the amount of acid the stomach produces.
Find out more about GORD
To find out more about Gastro-Oesophageal Reflux Disease talk to one of our gastroenterologists today.