Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

Acid Reflux and GERD in Adults Discharge Instructions

GERD stands for gastroesophageal reflux disease. It is sometimes just called reflux. Normally, food goes from the mouth through the food pipe and then into the belly. The food pipe is also called the esophagus. This condition happens when the contents of the belly leak into the food pipe. This leaking can irritate the food pipe. You may feel a burning pain in your chest called heartburn. You may have burping, bloating, and belly pain after eating. GERD can be treated in many different ways. Sometimes, doctors use drugs or suggest changes in lifestyle. Other times, diet changes or surgery is needed.

Relieve heartburn,Prevent reflux,Lessen acid production,Heal the esophageal lining

Limit caffeine intake.,Avoid eating oranges, berries, tomatoes, and other foods high in acid.,Eat only small amounts of spicy, fatty, and fried foods, or avoid them altogether.,Keep track of the foods that cause your signs to become worse. Avoid or limit these food items.

Asthma,Precancerous changes in the food pipe,Long-term cough,Dental problems,Higher risk of cancer of the food pipe. This is esophageal cancer.,Narrowing of the food pipe. This is a stricture.,Open sore in the food pipe. This is an ulcer.

Pain or a feeling of food getting stuck in your throat,Frequent throwing up or throwing up fluid that looks like blood or coffee grounds,Pain in the chest or upper part of the belly,Very bad heartburn that lasts for a long time,Cough, hoarseness of voice, or bad breath,Wheezing, shortness of breath or other problems breathing,Unintended weight loss or not wanting to eat,You are not feeling better in 2 to 3 days or you are feeling worse

Adult,Ambulatory Care,Emergency Medicine,Gastrointestinal

Acid Reflux Disease,Acid Regurgitation,Barrett's Esophagitis,Chronic Heartburn,Dyspepsia,Esophageal Reflux Disease,Gastro-oesophageal Reflux Disease,Gastroesophageal Reflux,Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease,GER,GERD,GORD,Heartburn,Peptic Esophagitis,Peptic Strictures,Reflux,Reflux Esophagitis

This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care provider’s advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you.

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