Digestive Heartburn/Reflux/GERD Awareness Heartburn · Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) · Advanced Surgical & Bariatrics of New Jersey · National Institutes of Health
Source: International Foundation for Gastrointestinal Disorders (AboutGerd.org)
Functional heartburn is characterized by episodes of burning discomfort in the chest behind the breastbone. There is no evidence of inflammation in the lining of the esophagus or other disease.
The discomfort generally comes in waves, occurs after meals and can be accompanied by belching, regurgitation, or dyspeptic symptoms, such as upper abdominal discomfort, bloating, or early feeling of being full. It occurs primarily during the day.
Functional heartburn is thought to be very common, occurring in about 20% of individuals according to several studies, and tends to affect more women than men.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, is a very common disorder. Each year, during the week of Thanksgiving, AboutGERD.com encourages people experiencing the symptoms, which may be GERD-related, to consult their physicians and to contact us to receive information and support regarding the condition.
GERD is a condition where stomach contents flow back (reflux) into the esophagus (food tube) causing troublesome symptoms and/or possible damage to the esophagus. GERD is a chronic disease for which long-term medical therapy is usually effective.
Only a doctor can make a diagnosis of GERD. Talk to your doctor if:
Your heartburn happens 2 or more times a week
Your heartburn gets worse
Your heartburn wakes you from sleep at night
You’ve had heartburn now and then for several years
You have difficulty or pain when swallowing
Your discomfort interferes with daily activities