Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease or GERD is an ingestive disorder that affects the upper digestive system, specifically the esophagus and the stomach. It creates an alteration in pressures between these two organs that prevent the proper passage of food materials, as well as fluids.

The exact cause of this condition is unknown, but medical studies suggest that it can be due to esophageal trauma that was created by surgery, cancer and infections. It is more common among young children than adults and it can aggravate a more fatal condition when not given prompt management.

The symptoms of GERD can range from mild, such as weight loss, dizziness, and impaired swallowing to more severe manifestations, such as heart burn or chest pain that radiates at the jaw, neck and back; excessive and long periods of vomiting, choking in between meals, fluid aspiration and difficulty breathing. If these symptoms will not be managed properly, it can lead to complications that can affect the heart, lungs and the other parts of the digestive system.

One of the most common remedy for GERD is by taking medications that were prescribed by the doctor. Some of these include cholinergic drugs to correct the pressure imbalance between the stomach and the esophagus, histamine receptor antagonist to decrease gastric acid secretions that contribute to heart burn, and antacids to neutralize gastric acid pH.

An acid reflux surgery may be recommended for severe cases of GERD. The most common surgical intervention is Nissen Fundoplication. It is the suturing of the fundus of the esophagus to block the reflux from the stomach due to high pressure in the organ. It is a major surgery and the surgeon will usually make a large opening in the abdominal area.

After the surgery, the person is recommended to follow proper anti-reflux management that includes medications, diet modifications, and lifestyle changes.