Overview
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) is a condition where stomach acid frequently flows back into the food pipe, causing irritation and discomfort. Many people experience burning in the chest, sour taste in the mouth or digestive discomfort that affects daily routine and sleep. With early care, GERD can be managed effectively, preventing long-term complications.
At Sarvodaya Hospital, we offer advanced GERD treatment guided by expert specialists recognised among the best gastroenterologists in Delhi NCR, Faridabad and Noida. Using accurate diagnostics and personalised treatment plans, our team helps patients understand their symptoms and regain comfort through safe and structured care.
Symptoms of GERD
- Persistent heartburn or burning sensation in the chest
- Sour taste or acid rising into the mouth
- Chest discomfort after meals
- Throat irritation or chronic cough
- Difficulty swallowing
- Hoarseness or voice changes
- Bloating or frequent burping
- Night-time reflux symptoms
- Discomfort when lying down after eating
- Feeling of food stuck in the chest
Causes of GERD
- Weak lower oesophageal valve
- Overeating or large meals
- Obesity or excess abdominal pressure
- High-fat or spicy foods
- Smoking or alcohol use
- Pregnancy-related changes
- Certain medications
- Hiatal hernia
- Sleeping immediately after meals
- Chronic digestive issues
Diagnosis of GERD
Accurate diagnosis helps determine the severity of reflux, identify complications and plan effective management. At Sarvodaya Hospital, a leading gastroenterology hospital, we use modern tools for precise evaluation.
- Upper GI Endoscopy: A thin flexible camera examines the food pipe for inflammation, ulcers or damage caused by chronic reflux, helping doctors identify the severity of GERD accurately.
- 24-Hour pH Monitoring: A specialised test measuring acid levels in the oesophagus throughout the day, providing clear insight into reflux patterns and symptom triggers.
- Oesophageal Manometry: A study that evaluates the strength and function of the oesophageal muscles and valve to detect motility issues contributing to GERD symptoms.
- Barium Swallow X-ray: A contrast imaging test that shows abnormalities in swallowing, structural changes and reflux movement within the oesophagus.
- Ultrasound & Blood Tests: Additional tests used to assess overall digestive health and rule out other causes of chest discomfort or upper abdominal symptoms.
Treatment for GERD
- Medication Therapy: Medicines reduce acid production, soothe irritation and prevent reflux episodes, helping patients experience quick and consistent relief.
- Lifestyle & Dietary Modification: Structured guidance on meal timings, food choices and daily routines helps reduce reflux episodes and improve digestion naturally.
- Advanced Endoscopic Management: Minimally invasive procedures help treat complications like inflammation or narrowing of the food pipe, offering precise and safe treatment.
- GERD Treatment Surgery: For severe reflux unresponsive to medicines, surgery strengthens the valve using minimally invasive techniques to provide long-term reflux control.
- Continuous Monitoring: Regular follow-ups with symptom review and imaging help track improvement and adjust treatment plans for long-term digestive comfort.
Prevention & Lifestyle Modification for GERD
Healthy routines play a key role in preventing reflux and managing GERD effectively. Small changes can significantly reduce symptoms and improve overall digestive health.
- Healthy Eating Habits: Eating smaller meals, avoiding late-night eating and choosing light, low-fat foods help reduce pressure on the stomach and limit acid reflux.
- Weight Management: Maintaining a healthy weight reduces abdominal pressure, improving digestion and decreasing reflux episodes naturally.
- Avoid Trigger Foods: Limiting spicy, oily, citrus or caffeinated foods prevents irritation and reduces acid imbalance.
- Stay Upright After Meals: Remaining upright for two hours after eating helps prevent acid from flowing upward into the oesophagus.
- Quit Smoking & Limit Alcohol: Avoiding these habits protects the oesophageal lining and helps control reflux.
- Regular Medical Check-Ups: Monitoring symptoms with a GERD specialist ensures early intervention and stable digestive health.
Pre and Post Treatment Lifestyle Modifications
Pre-Treatment Modifications:
- Meal Timing Discipline: Follow regular meal intervals and avoid heavy late dinners to reduce reflux episodes and support smoother digestion.
- Hydration Balance: Maintain adequate daily water intake to soothe the oesophagus and promote healthy digestive function.
- Light Physical Activity: Engage in gentle activities like walking to improve digestion, prevent bloating and minimise reflux.
- Elevated Sleeping Position: Sleep with the head slightly raised to reduce night time acid flow and protect the food pipe.
- Avoid Tight Clothing: Choose loose, comfortable clothing to avoid abdominal pressure and support better digestive comfort.
- Medical Review: Share details of current medications and symptoms with your doctor to guide appropriate treatment planning.
Post Treatment Modifications:
- Consistent Meal Routine: Continue eating balanced meals at regular intervals to maintain digestive stability and reduce flare ups.
- Proper Hydration: Keep drinking sufficient water to support digestion and maintain oesophageal comfort.
- Gentle Daily Movement: Resume light physical activity to aid digestion and prevent recurrent reflux.
- Sleep Position Care: Maintain an elevated head position during sleep to minimise night time discomfort.
- Comfortable Clothing: Wear loose clothing to keep abdominal pressure low and support healing.
- Regular Follow Ups: Attend scheduled consultations to monitor symptom control, adjust medicines if needed and ensure long term digestive health.
