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Nurse's Health Corner: November 2011

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease, or GERD, is a common problem for many Americans which causes stomach acid to flow up the esophagus (throat) instead of staying in the stomach. There is no single cause of GERD, but problems associated with the disease can cause heartburn, anxiety, sleepless nights, or even cancer.

November 20-26, 2011, begins the 13th Annual GERD Awareness Week. For millions of Americans, GERD Awareness Week could not come at a more appropriate time than the same week as Thanksgiving! Turkey, gravy, mashed potatoes, and all those different pies offered at Thanksgiving feasts can bring about massive amounts of suffering for those with GERD.

Some symptoms of the disease include:

  • Belching
  • Difficulty/pain when swallowing
  • Sudden excess of saliva
  • Laryngitis
  • Chronic sore throat
  • Dysphagia (the sensation of food sticking in the esophagus)
  • Erosion of tooth enamel
  • Chronic throat irritation
  • Hoarseness in the morning
  • A sour taste in the mouth
  • Bad breath
  • Inflammation of gums

While all people experience heartburn at some point in their life, people with GERD typically have heartburn two or more times per week that can disrupt daily activities and sleep. If you know somebody with the disease, try to be understanding if they keep passing by your secret gravy recipe or say no to your grandma's sweet potato pie. Social pressure from family and friends can cause a lot of anxiety for those with GERD, since it only takes one meal to cause days of suffering. The person passing the gravy probably wishes they could taste it as much as you!

Treatments and medications are available, but many become resistant to them after a period of time or have bad side effects. There is no cure for GERD. If you or someone you love has GERD, call the IFFGD Helpline toll-free at 1-888-964-2001 or visit www.aboutgerd.org to receive more information and support. They can provide tips and tricks how to prepare a Thanksgiving dish that everyone at your table can enjoy.

Article provided by Teri Brown, Intern from James Madison University working with Dana Breeding, RN Health Educator of Community Wellness at Augusta Health. Funding has been provided by the Augusta Health Foundation. To contact Dana Breeding, RN, relating to the information in this article, please call (540) 332-4988 or (540) 932-4988.