Question: How Long Does GERD Take to Heal?
Answer:
- The healing timeline for GERD varies, with some individuals experiencing immediate relief from symptoms within days to weeks of starting treatment.
- Long-term management and lifestyle changes are usually necessary to maintain symptom control over the years.
| Aspect | Description |
| Introduction | · GERD which is commonly known as Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease. · It is chronic digestive disorder that involves the frequent backflow of stomach acid and sometimes, undigested food, into the esophagus. |
| Causes | · Weakening of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) which causes stomach acid to flow upward. · Spicy foods · Obesity · Pregnancy · Smoking · Hiatal hernia · Certain medications · Genetics · Alcohol |
| Symptoms | · Heartburn · Regurgitation · Chest pain · Difficulty swallowing or dysphagia · Sour taste in the mouth · Chronic cough · Hoarseness |
| Diagnosis | · Clinical Assessment: Based on symptoms, medical history, and risk factors. · Endoscopy: Visual examination of the esophagus using a thin tube with a camera (endoscope). · pH Monitoring: Measures acid levels in the esophagus over 24 hours. · Barium Swallow: X-ray with contrast dye to visualize the esophagus. · Esophageal Manometry: It is a swallowing test that measures esophageal muscle contractions. |
| Treatment | · Medications: Antacids, H2 blockers, Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs). · Surgery: For severe cases not responding to other treatments. · Lifestyle Changes: Elevating head during sleep, weight loss, avoiding trigger foods, smaller meals and quitting smoking. |
| Preventive measures | · Maintain a Healthy Weight as excess weight can contribute to GERD. · Avoid Trigger Foods such as fatty, fried, spicy, and acidic foods as well as caffeine and alcohol. · Eat Smaller Meals as it can reduce the pressure on the lower esophagus sphincter. · Quit Smoking because Smoking weakens the lower esophagus sphincter. · Keep your head elevated during sleep. · Avoid Late Meals and eat at least 2-3 hours before lying down on the bed. |
| Duration of Healing | · Immediate relief from symptoms might be noticed within days to a few weeks after starting medication. · Complete healing process of esophagus inflammation can take several weeks to months. |
| Personal Factors | · Healing varies based on severity of the disease · Individual response to treatment · Underlying health status |
| Age-related risk groups for GERD | · Older Adults: As people age, the muscles including the LES can weaken, increasing the risk of reflux and GERD symptoms. · Infants and Children: GERD can occur in infants and children due to an immature digestive system, which may lead to spitting up and discomfort. |
| Long-Term Management | · Long term management of GERD involves ongoing lifestyle changes · Possible medication and regular follow-ups. |
| Complications risks associated with GERD | · Untreated GERD can lead to esophagitis · Barrett’s esophagus or increasing risk of cancer · Strictures (narrowing) · Respiratory issues due to acid aspiration |