What Is Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)?

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) Services at GHS

What is GERD?

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), commonly known as acid reflux disease, occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter—the muscle at the junction of the esophagus and stomach—fails to close properly. This allows stomach acid to flow backward into the esophagus, causing irritation and discomfort.

What is a Lower Esophageal (Gastroesophageal) Sphincter?

The LES is a circular band of muscle at the bottom of the esophagus. When healthy, it opens to let food into the stomach, then closes tightly to prevent reflux.

A weakened or relaxed LES permits stomach contents to splash back (“reflux”) onto the unprotected lining of the esophagus. Chronic reflux damages the esophageal wall, leading to inflammation, scarring, and even Barrett’s esophagus or cancer if untreated.

Common Symptoms of GERD

Heartburn: Burning pain behind the breastbone, often after meals
Regurgitation: Sour or bitter-tasting fluid in the throat or mouth
Chest Pain: Occasionally severe, mimicking a heart attack
Upper Abdominal Pain: Especially within 1–2 hours of eating
Nighttime Symptoms: Cough, wheezing or choking when lying flat

If you experience sudden, severe chest pain, call 911 or visit our emergency department to rule out a cardiac event.

Causes & Risk Factors

Hiatal Hernia: Part of the stomach pushes into the chest through the diaphragm
Obesity: Increases abdominal pressure on the LES
Dietary Triggers: Caffeine, peppermint, fatty foods, chocolate, alcohol
Lifestyle Factors: Smoking weakens LES tone; late-night meals worsen reflux
Medications: Certain asthma, blood pressure or allergy meds can relax the LES

Diagnosing GERD at GHS

Our multidisciplinary team offers comprehensive evaluation:

Upper Endoscopy (EGD): Visualize the esophageal lining, biopsy if needed
pH Monitoring: Measure acid exposure over 24–48 hours
Esophageal Manometry: Assess LES pressure and esophageal muscle function
Imaging & Blood Tests: Rule out other causes of upper abdominal pain

Prevention & Self-Care Tips

Quit Smoking to strengthen LES function
Limit Caffeine & Alcohol
Don’t Eat within 2–3 hours of bedtime
Raise Your Bed Head or use a wedge pillow

Get Expert GERD Care in Granville County

Our digestive health specialists at Granville Health System provide same-day and outpatient appointments in Oxford, NC. From diagnosis through advanced treatment, GHS offers:

Board-certified gastroenterologists
State-of-the-art endoscopy suites
Comprehensive follow-up care

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What’s the difference between GERD and everyday heartburn?
A: Occasional heartburn is common; GERD is diagnosed when symptoms occur twice or more per week or cause complications.

Q: How can I strengthen my lower esophageal sphincter?
A: Weight loss, quitting smoking, and avoiding trigger foods can improve LES tone.

Q: When is GERD a medical emergency?
A: Sudden, severe chest pain—especially with shortness of breath—requires immediate evaluation to rule out a heart attack.