A common relapsing condition affecting approximately 10% of the U.S. population and caused by an abnormal exposure of the lower esophagus to refluxed gastric contents, causing irritation and injury to the esophageal tissues. GERD develops as a result of relaxations of the transient lower esophageal sphincter. Typical presenting symptoms are heartburn, an epigastric burning sensation and acid regurgitation. However, some patients may present with atypical symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, wheezing, and coughing. Also: Gastric Reflux, Gastroesophageal Reflux, Gastro-Esophageal Reflux Disease, GERD

	Bladderwrack As A Treatment "...As well as the conditions mentioned below, bladderwrack has traditionally been used for: Diarrhea; gastritis; gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD); improved wound healing (topical application)..." Delayed Gastric Emptying (Gastroparesis) The Condition "...Delayed gastric emptying is also associated with a variety of symptoms or diseases such as heartburn, irritable bowel syndrome, functional dyspepsia and GERD..." Dyspepsia / Poor Digestion The Condition "...Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): Incompetent cardiac sphincter, causing backward flow of acid from the stomach up into the esophagus..." Esophageal Cancer The Condition "...Tissues at the bottom of the esophagus can become irritated if stomach acid frequently "backs up" into the esophagus -- a problem called gastric reflux (GERD)..." Esophagitis The Condition "...that are swallowed; pills that become stuck in the esophagus; medications and supplements such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), alendronate, doxycycline, iron, or potassium; gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)..." Heartburn / GERD / Acid Reflux The Condition "Heartburn is a symptom of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), which is a digestive disorder that affects the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) - the muscle connecting the esophagus with the stomach..." Our Question about asthma "About half of asthmatic patients also have GERD, of which heartburn is a symptom..." Relationship to Gastric/Peptic/Duodenal Ulcers "There is a relatively high prevalence of GERD amongst patients with duodenal or gastric ulcers..." Relationship to Hypothyroidism "Gastrointestinal manifestations of hypothyroidism include GERD as a result of delayed emptying of the stomach..." Relationship to Hiatal Hernia "Some doctors believe that some people suffer from GERD due to a condition called hiatal hernia..." Relationship to Barrett's Esophagus "Chronic GERD can result in Barrett's esophagus..." Recommendation Weight Loss "Obesity is known to be a cause of GERD..." Recommendation against Eating Nearer to Bedtime "...Anyone who snacks at bedtime is at high risk of GERD..." Hiatal Hernia The Condition "...paraesophageal hernia) or is complicated by severe GERD or esophagitis (inflammation of the esophagus)..."

Last updated: Oct 08, 2008