Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): Answering Most Common Questions

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a chronic condition affecting millions of people worldwide. It occurs when stomach acid frequently flows back into the esophagus, leading to irritation and discomfort. While occasional acid reflux is common, GERD is diagnosed when it becomes persistent, affecting daily life and requiring medical intervention. Understanding GERD's causes, symptoms, and treatment options is essential for managing and potentially overcoming this condition.

What Is the Main Cause of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease?

The primary cause of GERD is a weakened or dysfunctional lower esophageal sphincter (LES). The LES is a muscular ring that acts as a valve between the esophagus and stomach. Normally, it opens to allow food and liquids to pass into the stomach and then closes tightly to prevent backflow. When the LES is weak or relaxes inappropriately, stomach acid and digestive enzymes can travel back into the esophagus, causing irritation and inflammation.

Several factors contribute to LES dysfunction, including obesity, pregnancy, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and certain medications. Additionally, dietary habits—such as consuming large meals, eating late at night, or eating spicy and fatty foods—can exacerbate reflux symptoms. Stress and lack of sleep can also play a role in worsening GERD, as they contribute to poor digestion and increased stomach acid production.

Does GERD Ever Go Away?

For some individuals, GERD can be a temporary issue that resolves with lifestyle changes and short-term medication use. However, for many, GERD is a chronic condition that requires long-term management. Without proper treatment, GERD can lead to complications such as esophagitis, Barrett’s esophagus, and even esophageal cancer. Therefore, while symptoms can be controlled and sometimes eliminated, GERD itself may not completely go away without consistent intervention.

What Are Four Symptoms of GERD?

GERD manifests in various ways, but four of the most common symptoms include:

• Heartburn – A burning sensation in the chest, often occurring after meals or when lying down.
• Regurgitation – A sour or bitter taste in the mouth due to stomach acid backing up into the throat.
• Difficulty Swallowing (Dysphagia) – A feeling of food getting stuck in the throat or chest.
• Chronic Cough or Sore Throat – Persistent irritation caused by acid affecting the throat and vocal cords.

Other symptoms may include nausea, excessive burping, bloating, and even dental erosion due to prolonged exposure to stomach acid.

How Can I Fix My GERD?

Managing GERD involves a combination of lifestyle modifications, dietary changes, and medications. One of the most effective ways to reduce symptoms is maintaining a healthy weight, as excess weight puts pressure on the stomach and LES. Eating smaller meals, avoiding lying down immediately after eating, and elevating the head while sleeping can also provide relief.

Medications such as antacids, H2 blockers, and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) can help control stomach acid production and provide symptom relief. For individuals with severe or persistent GERD, surgical options like fundoplication may be considered. Regular exercise and stress management techniques such as yoga or meditation may also help improve digestive health.

How to Cure GERD Permanently?

While there is no guaranteed permanent cure for GERD, some individuals can achieve long-term remission by making significant lifestyle and dietary changes. Weight management, smoking cessation, and avoiding known triggers can greatly reduce symptoms. In severe cases where medical therapy does not work, surgical interventions like the Nissen fundoplication can reinforce the LES and provide long-term relief.

Additionally, alternative therapies such as acupuncture, herbal remedies, and probiotics are gaining popularity for managing GERD symptoms. Although more research is needed, some patients report improvement with these methods. Consulting a healthcare provider before trying alternative treatments is always advisable.

Acid Reflux Foods to Avoid

Diet plays a crucial role in managing GERD. Certain foods are known to trigger acid reflux and should be minimized or eliminated from the diet. Common culprits include acidic foods (such as tomatoes and citrus fruits), spicy foods, fried and fatty meals, caffeine, and carbonated beverages. Each person’s triggers may vary, so keeping a food diary can help identify specific dietary causes of reflux symptoms.

On the other hand, foods that may help soothe GERD symptoms include oatmeal, bananas, lean proteins, and non-citrus fruits. Drinking plenty of water and consuming meals rich in fiber can also aid digestion and reduce acid reflux episodes.

Treatment with Motilium

Motilium (domperidone) is a medication sometimes used to treat symptoms associated with GERD. It works by enhancing gastric motility, which helps food pass more efficiently through the digestive system and reduces the likelihood of reflux. While Motilium can be beneficial in managing symptoms like nausea, bloating, and delayed gastric emptying, it is not a first-line treatment for GERD. Instead, it is often prescribed alongside other medications such as PPIs to improve digestive function. Patients should always consult their healthcare provider before using Motilium, as it may not be suitable for individuals with certain heart conditions.

Motilium primarily works by blocking dopamine receptors in the gastrointestinal tract, which enhances stomach contractions and speeds up the movement of food from the stomach to the intestines. This helps to prevent food from staying in the stomach for too long, reducing the risk of acid reflux. Since Motilium does not directly reduce stomach acid production like PPIs or H2 blockers, it is typically used in cases where GERD is associated with slow gastric emptying (gastroparesis).

Despite its effectiveness, Motilium is not without potential risks. Some users may experience side effects such as dry mouth, abdominal cramps, or dizziness. More serious side effects, including irregular heart rhythms, are rare but have been reported, particularly in individuals with pre-existing cardiac conditions. Because of this, Motilium is often prescribed at the lowest effective dose and for the shortest duration possible.

It is also worth noting that Motilium is not approved for use in all countries due to concerns about its cardiac effects. In some regions, its use is restricted to certain patient groups, and it is only available by prescription. Patients considering Motilium for GERD treatment should discuss the risks and benefits with their doctor to determine if it is a suitable option.

Final Thoughts

Gastroesophageal reflux disease is a prevalent yet manageable condition. While some individuals may find relief through simple lifestyle adjustments, others may require long-term medication or even surgical intervention. Avoiding trigger foods, maintaining a healthy weight, and using medications as prescribed can significantly improve quality of life. If GERD symptoms persist despite treatment, consulting a healthcare professional is essential to prevent complications and explore further options. Proper management can help individuals lead a comfortable, symptom-free life.With growing awareness about GERD and advances in medical treatments, individuals suffering from this condition have multiple options to improve their well-being. Whether through medication, lifestyle adjustments, or surgical procedures, taking proactive steps can lead to long-term relief and better digestive health.

Medically Reviewed by Dr. Faride Ramos, MD