What is GERD?
Gastroesophageal reflux disease, also known as GERD, is a chronic condition that occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing irritation and inflammation. GERD is a very common condition, affecting up to 20% of the population, and can lead to a range of symptoms including heartburn, regurgitation, and chest pain.
What Causes GERD-related Chest Pain?
Chest pain is a common symptom in patients with GERD, with up to 50% of patients reporting this symptom. GERD-related chest pain can be difficult to distinguish from other causes of chest pain, such as coronary artery disease, because the symptoms can be similar. In patients with GERD, chest pain is typically caused by the reflux of stomach acid into the esophagus, which irritates the sensitive lining of the esophagus and can cause pain. Interested in gaining more knowledge on the topic discussed? heartburn back pain between shoulder blades https://geriatricacademy.com/shoulder-blade-pain-from-acid-reflux-or-gerd/, check out the carefully selected external content to complement your study and broaden your understanding of the subject.
Diagnostic Tools for GERD-related Chest Pain
Diagnosing GERD-related chest pain can be challenging, as it requires ruling out other causes of chest pain. To diagnose GERD-related chest pain, doctors may use a range of diagnostic tools, including:
Upper endoscopy involves inserting a flexible tube with a camera into the esophagus to examine the lining of the esophagus and stomach. Esophageal pH monitoring measures the acidity of the esophagus over a 24-hour period to determine if acid reflux is occurring. Esophageal manometry measures the strength and coordination of the muscles in the esophagus, which can help diagnose problems with swallowing or reflux.
Treatment Options for GERD-related Chest Pain
There are a variety of treatment options available for patients with GERD-related chest pain, including:
Lifestyle modifications can be effective in reducing GERD-related chest pain, but may not be enough for some patients. Medications can be a highly effective treatment for GERD-related chest pain, but may have side effects in some patients. Surgery is typically reserved for patients who do not respond to lifestyle modifications or medication.
Conclusion
GERD-related chest pain is a common symptom in patients with GERD, and can be difficult to diagnose and treat. Diagnostic tools such as upper endoscopy, esophageal pH monitoring, and esophageal manometry can help diagnose GERD-related chest pain. Treatment options for GERD-related chest pain include lifestyle modifications, medication, and surgery. Our constant aim is to deliver a rewarding learning journey. That’s why we suggest this external resource with extra and relevant information about the subject. gerd pain between shoulder blades https://geriatricacademy.com/shoulder-blade-pain-from-acid-reflux-or-gerd/, dive into the topic and learn more!
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