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GERD

Acid reflux happens when gastric juices containing acid wash back from the stomach into the esophagus. Some people experience this problem regularly and have a condition called gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD.

Basics

Our Primary References
Bibliography and resources. The books, articles, websites and organizations we have used to create this website. Some of our articles will list additional references or citations specific to the subject being covered.

What is GERD?
A simple answer to the question What is GERD? Though GERD may include symptoms of heartburn it is not necessarily the same thing.

Causes and Related Conditions

GERD Causes
GERD causes may appear to be varied and hard to pinpoint, but the underlying physical disorder is common to all GERD patients.

Being Overweight Can Lead to GERD
People who are overweight are more than twice as likely to have GERD. This article discusses several theories that may explain the link between GERD and obesity.

GERD Linked to Obesity in Women
Researchers recently discovered an association between being overweight and gastroesophageal reflux disease.

Eosinophilic Esophagitis
Diagnosis, causes, symptoms and treatments. Eosinophilic esophagitis elimination diet, more.

Achalasia
Learn about the swallowing disorder Achalasia. Causes and symptoms of Achalasia. Diagnosis and treatment options for Achalasia.

Symptoms & Complications

GERD Symptoms
Common and uncommon GERD symptoms - Learn if you have GERD.

Complications from GERD
Repeated exposures to acid due to GERD can damage the esophagus and lead to a number of complications outlined in this article.

Esophageal Stricture
Diagnosis, causes, symptoms and treatments. Esophageal Stricture due to Acid Reflux or trauma.

Refractory GERD
Refractory GERD is surprisingly common and commonly frustrating. Learn about advanced diagnosis, possible treatments and new medical research techniques being used to study refractory GERD.

GERD and Asthma
Compared to the general population a disproportionate number of asthma sufferers also have GERD. Studies have been stepped up to investigate the link. Here are some recent findings.

GERD Surgery

GERD Surgery - Fundoplication
Fundoplication involves wrapping a portion of the stomach either partially or completely around the band of muscles at the base of the esophagus to strengthen the LES. Here we explain the Open Nissen fundoplication vs. Laparoscopic fundoplication.

GERD Surgery - Fundoplication Risks and Possible Complications
Risks and complications specific to fundoplication surgery - includes risks specific to Nissen or laparoscopic fundoplication as well as risks relating to surgery in general.

GERD Surgery- Fundoplication Variations
Nissen fundoplication, Toupet fundoplication, Belsey Mark IV fundoplication, Endoluminal fundoplication

GERD Surgery- Laparoscopic Fundoplication Video
This video shows a laparoscopic adaptation of the Nissen fundoplication.

GERD Surgery- Not Necessarily a Definitive Cure
After 10 years research follow-up on a study of fundoplication patients to find the surgery may not be a good bet for the long term.

GERD Surgery - Radiofrequency Energy Procedure (aka Stretta procedure)
A minimally invasive, one-time endoluminal treatment for GERD that gently delivers precise radiofrequency waves to the lower esophageal sphincter.

GERD Surgery - Endoscopic Suturing
Endoscopic suturing requires only mild sedation and offers quick recovery and results.

GERD Surgery - Esophageal Dilation
Learn about esophageal dilation: what to expect, techniques, risks and potential complications and success rates.

GERD Surgery - Esophageal Dilation Video
This video shows an endoscopic video of a esophageal dilation using a balloon dilator.

By Mortin - Copyright 2009
Last modification 30/12/2009