We create new possibilities for life We create new possibilities for life

WhatsApp Appointment

Orchard +65 8111 7777

Novena +65 8111 5777

  1. Home
  2. Medical Specialties
  3. Discover Medical Specialties
  4. Stomach & Digestive System (Gastroenterology)
  5. Gastro Oesophageal Reflux Diseases (GERD)

Gastro Oesophageal Reflux Diseases (GERD)

  • What is Gastro Oesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)?

    Gastro Oesophageal Reflux Disease is a chronic digestive disease. It occurs when the acid from the stomach flows back (reflux) into the oesophagus (food pipe). This reflux irritates, and can sometimes damage, the lining of the oesophagus. It can also reach the vocal cords, or even flow back into the lungs.

  • There is no identified sole cause of Gastro Oesophageal Reflux Disease. Gastro Oesophageal Reflux Disease usually occurs when the muscular valve between the stomach and the oesophagus, known as the lower oesophageal sphincter, is weak or faulty. This therefore allows the stomach acid to flow back into the oesophagus.

    There are various risk factors that contribute to the onset of Gastro Oesophageal Reflux Disease, and these include:

    • Certain diseases (Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome, Scleroderma)
    • Increased production of gastrin, a hormone that regulates the release of stomach acid
    • Obesity
    • Pregnancy
    • Smoking
    • Use of certain medications

  • The most common symptom of Gastro Oesophageal Reflux Disease is heartburn, which is a burning sensation of the chest that spreads from the stomach to the throat. Other possible symptoms of GERD Gastro Oesophageal Reflux Disease:

    • Bitter taste in the mouth (acid regurgitation)
    • Bloated tummy
    • Burping
    • Feeling of a lump in the throat
    • Hoarseness of voice
    • Pain and difficulty swallowing
    • Pain or discomfort in the chest
    • Persistent cough
    • Persistent sore throat

  • There are different treatment options available for Gastro Oesophageal Reflux Disease, which depend on the severity of the condition. Your doctor will evaluate your condition and suggest the treatment that suits you best:

    • Lifestyle changes for the treatment of mild Gastro Oesophageal Reflux Disease symptoms, and these include:
      1. Avoiding eating late
      2. Avoiding food that induces your acid reflux
      3. Eating smaller meals
      4. Maintaining a healthy weight
      5. Quitting smoking
      6. Raising your bed head
      7. Wearing comfortable clothing to avoid pressure on stomach
    • Prescription medications for moderate to severe symptoms that do not respond to lifestyle changes

    • Barrett’s Oesophagus, which is characterised by long-lasting Gastro Oesophageal Reflux Disease and increases the risk of Oesophageal Cancer
    • Inflammation of the vocal cords
    • Lung damage including Pulmonary Fibrosis and Bronchiectasis
    • Stricture (blockage) of the oesophagus caused by scar tissues that develop due to recurrent ulcerations
    • Ulcers in the oesophagus caused by burning from stomach acid

  • Our Specialists

    There are 24 SpecialistsView All

    There are 24 SpecialistsView All

  • Related Health Articles

  • Multimedia

    Copyright © 2017 Parkway Holdings Limited.

    All rights reserved.

    Company Registration no. 197400320R