Antacids : Products like Rolaids, Tums tablets, or Mylanta liquid can help to neutralize the acid and relieve symptoms immediately.Examples of over-the-counter PPIs include Prevacid and Prilosec (omeprazole). Proton pump inhibitors (PPI) : These medications act as acid blockers and provide an opportunity for the lining of the esophagus to heal.

Medications that may improve or manage GERD symptoms include: Beginning a diet and exercise plan that is geared towards weight loss or maintaining a healthy weight.Quitting smoking or avoiding being around secondhand smoke.Lifestyle changes that may improve GERD symptoms include: Sometimes, you may be asked to swallow a pill made of barium, which can help diagnose an esophageal stricture (narrowing).Д¬ommon treatments for GERD include medications and lifestyle changes. Upper GI X-ray : This x-ray is taken after you drink a chalky liquid that coats the esophagus, giving the doctor a different view of your GI tract (the esophagus, stomach, and upper portion of your colon).This information gives some insight into how effectively your esophagus is working. It is also able to measure the force of each contraction. Esophageal manometry : This is a test that measures the rhythm of the contractions in your esophagus.In addition to studying it, your doctor may be able to get tissue samples to test for inflammation or cancer cells.

With this, the doctor is able to look at the lining of your esophagus and even at the inside of your stomach. The tube has a light and a camera on the end.

Endoscopy : Also known as an upper endoscopy, this procedure is performed by inserting a thin, flexible tube through your mouth and down into your esophagus.

To confirm a diagnosis of GERD, you may have: GERD can be diagnosed via a few different tests, as well as a thorough medical history taken by your doctor. The stomach acid flowing back up into the esophagus is what causes the burning feeling in your chest. This causes irritation of the lining of the esophagus and often leads to inflammation. Acid reflux happens when the sphincter either closes when it shouldnвЂ™t or just becomes weaker, both of which allow stomach acid to backflow up into the esophagus. After the esophagus is emptied, the sphincter closes. When you swallow food, thereвЂ™s a little band of muscle (called a sphincter) at the bottom of your esophagus that relaxes to allow the food and liquid into the stomach.

GERD is caused by frequent episodes of acid reflux. Taking certain medications, including painkillers or antidepressants.A smoker, or are exposed to secondhand smoke on a regular basis.You may be more likely to develop GERD if you are: However, there are a few profiles that are more likely to develop it. GERD can strike anyone at any time, no matter your age or ethnicity.

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