Proper treatment of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

Treatment of GERD is a subjective process and is based on the severity of the patient’s symptoms and the history of the disease. The following is a general outline of possible treatment for this condition, though an individual's specific treatment plan will depend on their physician and the level of disease present in the patient.

Mild GERD Therapy

This consists of life style and diet modification and the possible use of over-the-counter drugs for symptomatic relief.

Diet and life style modification should as follows:

Moderate intake of fatty foods

Decreased tomato based foods

Decrease intake of chocolate and caffeine

Reduced alcohol consumption

Avoidance of large meals late at night

Weight loss if overweight

For symptomatic treatment one can obtain antacids or over-the-counter histamine blockers, such as Ranitidine. Elevating the head of the bed at night time can also provide relief as it reduces the ability of stomach acid to reach the esophagus.

Moderate GERD Therapy

This line of therapy basically consists of the strategies stated above with slight modifications.

Histamine blockers are started at a full dose, along with a limited course of a proton pump inhibitor such as Omeprazole. Both of these medications decrease acid production on the stomach.

Severe GERD Therapy

Once again therapy consists of all of the above mentioned strategies with some additions.

Proton pump inhibitors are taken continuously at full dose. If there is no remission of symptoms, then there are surgical or endoscopic procedures that are available.

Although GERD may seem more of a nuisance than a serious condition, it can have severe consequences if left untreated for a prolonged period of time. Once can develop trouble swallowing, upper gastrointestinal bleeding, and a condition known as Barrett’s esophagus. Barrett’s esophagus is a major risk factor for the development of esophageal cancer and will be discussed in a separate article. It is important to treat GERD adequately so that it does not develop into a more serious condition.