Have you ever enjoyed a meal only to be bothered later by heartburn or a sour taste in your mouth? While heartburn happens from time to time to many people, frequent symptoms could be a sign of gastroesophageal reflux disease, also called GERD.
According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases 1 in 5 adults in the United States has GERD, making it one of the most common digestive conditions. Adults over 65 may be more likely to experience symptoms because of age-related changes in digestion and other health conditions. But by knowing the signs and understanding what causes GERD you can help yourself feel better and protect your health.
What is GERD
GERD happens when stomach acid moves back up into your esophagus, the tube that carries food from your mouth to your stomach. This happens when the muscle that normally keeps stomach acid where it belongs becomes weak or does not close all the way.
While getting heartburn occasionally is normal, GERD is an ongoing condition that can affect daily life and may need treatment. GERD symptoms can be different for everyone, and some people have mild symptoms, while others find that GERD affects their daily life.
Common symptoms include:
- Heartburn after meals
- A sour or bitter taste in the mouth
- Trouble swallowing or feeling like food is stuck in your throat
- A cough that does not go away, especially at night
- A sore throat or hoarse voice
- A feeling that food or stomach acid is backing up into your throat
- Bloating or discomfort in the upper belly
If you have any of these symptoms more than twice a week, it is important to make an appointment to talk with your primary care doctor or advanced practice provider* (APP).
Why is GERD more common as we age
Anyone can develop GERD, but it tends to become more common as we get older. This can be due to several factors, including:
Changes in the body: As we get older, the muscle that keeps stomach acid from moving upward may become weaker. This makes acid reflux more likely.
Medications: Some medicines used to treat high blood pressure, arthritis or heart disease can make GERD symptoms worse.
Slower digestion: As we age, food may stay in the stomach longer. This gives stomach acid more time to move back into the esophagus.
Other health problems: Certain health conditions, including diabetes and obesity, can make GERD more likely. Limited movement and hiatal hernias may also play a role.
Treatment options
Small changes in your daily life can make a big difference in controlling and maintaining GERD.
- Eat smaller meals: Large meals put pressure on your stomach. Eating smaller meals more often may help reduce your symptoms.
- Stay upright after eating: Try not to lie down right after meals. Stay upright for two to three hours after eating to help reduce reflux. Consider taking a short walk to help aid in digestion.
- Watch for trigger foods: Some foods and drinks can make your GERD worse. Keeping track of what you eat may help you spot foods that trigger symptoms. Foods to watch include:
- Tomatoes
- Citrus fruits
- Chocolate
- Coffee
- Alcohol
- Soda
- Fried and fatty foods
- Sleep in a better position: Heartburn can be worse at night. Raising the head of your bed by six to eight inches or sleeping on your left side may help.
- Stay at a healthy weight: Extra weight around your belly can put pressure on the stomach and make reflux worse. Healthy eating and regular activity can help you maintain a healthy weight.
- Limit smoking and alcohol: Smoking and alcohol can weaken the muscles that help keep acid in the stomach. Cutting back or quitting may bring relief to your GERD symptoms.
When to seek help
Many people feel better with lifestyle changes. But you should talk with your doctor or APP if:
- Your symptoms do not improve
- You have trouble swallowing or food often feels stuck
- Heartburn keeps you awake at night
- You lose weight without trying
- You have chest pain
Your doctor or APP may recommend medicine or tests to check for damage to the esophagus. They can also work with you to find the right treatment plan for you.
It is important to remind yourself that GERD is more than a nuisance. Over time, ongoing reflux can irritate and damage the lining of your esophagus. In some people, long-term GERD can lead to Barrett's esophagus. About 10% to 15% of people with chronic GERD will develop this condition, which can raise the risk of esophageal cancer.
Getting older does not mean you have to live with frequent heartburn. If acid reflux is becoming a regular problem, talk with your doctor or APP. With the right care and a few healthy habits, you can manage your GERD symptoms and get back to enjoying meals, sleeping better, and feeling more comfortable every day.
*An advanced practice provider includes a nurse practitioner or physician assistant.
To schedule an appointment with nurse practitioner Dineta Edwards, please contact Village Medical - East Pearland at 346-398-7252 or visit us at 6122 Broadway St., Suite 100, Pearland, TX 77581. We look forward to caring for you and supporting your health every step of the way.