Heartburn and GERD affect many people, but most patients incorrectly think that the two are the same. In this article, we will discuss the similarities and differences between GERD and heartburn so you can know how to better identify and treat each condition.
GERD
GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease) is a condition in which stomach contents travel back up into the esophagus, causing heartburn, pain, and other symptoms. This occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter (a ring that works to keep things separated between the esophagus and the stomach) becomes weakened. This allows the stomach’s contents to go back up into the patient’s esophagus after it has already passed through.
Treating GERD usually begins with conservative methods like medication, diet management, and simple lifestyle changes. If your symptoms do not improve with these conservative methods, you may benefit from surgical intervention – which can provide long-lasting symptom relief.
Heartburn
Heartburn (also known as acid reflux) is much more common than GERD. It occurs as the result of an irritation of the esophagus. Typically, heartburn only lasts for a few minutes or hours at a time. If it lasts longer than that or recurs on a regular basis, it may be an indication of GERD.
Bhatti Heartburn Center
If you are experiencing heartburn, reflux or GERD symptoms, contact a gastroenterologist as soon as possible to discuss appropriate treatment options.
Bhatti Heartburn Center has the latest state-of-the-art technologies to test the function of the esophagus, measure acid levels and evaluate for precancerous conditions. We can then deliver world class treatment tailored for you, whether it is medications or the latest in minimally invasive surgery. Bhatti Heartburn Center even offers the LINX Reflux Management Device, which is the latest in GERD treatments. As us about it!
