Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can be an exhausting condition to live with. The constant discomfort from heartburn can make you start to dread your meals. If you struggle with it frequently, you might be wondering how to cure GERD permanently.
Fortunately, options are available to help you stay more comfortable for longer.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is when stomach acid flows back into your esophagus. This backflow, or reflux, can irritate the lining of the esophagus. Many people may experience occasional acid reflux. GERD is a more persistent form that typically occurs two or more times a week.
GERD can happen because of a weak lower esophageal sphincter (LES). The LES is a valve-like ring of muscle that closes off the esophagus from the stomach. In a healthy digestive system, the LES opens to let food and liquids pass into the stomach, then closes. If it doesn’t close well or relaxes too much, acid and stomach contents can flow back, leading to irritation and inflammation.
People with GERD may experience:
Not everyone will have all of these symptoms. In fact, some people have what is called silent reflux. Although they may not have noticeable heartburn, they can still develop complications.
Untreated or poorly managed GERD can lead to worsening symptoms and health issues such as:
Esophagitis: If acid continually irritates the esophagus, it can become inflamed or develop small ulcers. Over time, scarring can narrow the esophagus, leading to swallowing difficulties.
Barrett’s Esophagus: A more serious complication is Barrett’s esophagus. This is where the normal tissue lining the esophagus changes form. It begins to resemble the lining of the intestine instead of healthy esophageal cells. This condition usually doesn’t cause new symptoms, but it increases the risk of developing esophageal cancer. If you have long-standing or severe GERD, your doctor will monitor you regularly for Barrett’s esophagus.
Respiratory Issues: Chronic reflux can sometimes worsen asthma symptoms or cause other airway problems such as:
If you have mild or occasional symptoms, these first-line strategies may be enough to control GERD and prevent complications:
Antacids can help neutralize stomach acid and provide quick but temporary relief
H2 blockers like ranitidine reduce acid production for several hours
Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) like omeprazole dramatically decrease acid production
Prokinetic agents can help speed up stomach emptying and strengthen LES contractions
Some people find that their GERD keeps returning despite trying these methods. In som, more permanent solutions may be needed. It’s important to note that each method varies in terms of how long they last. Some people may cure GERD permanently. Others may need to repeat procedures or try a different procedure.
Endoscopic options used to strengthen the LES are less invasive than traditional surgery:
TIF is a minimally invasive procedure that can cure GERD permanently in some circumstances. It works by recreating the body’s natural barrier to reflux. TIF is performed through the mouth using a specialized device and a thin, flexible tube with a camera (endoscope). The device helps wrap the top of your stomach around the esophagus, and small plastic fasteners hold it in place. There are no external cuts or stitches. When TIF is the only option, it’s usually performed by surgeons when a gastroenterologist recommends it.
In this procedure, a surgeon wraps the upper part of the stomach around the lower esophagus to recreate the valve. This helps block acid from traveling back up the esophagus. It uses surgical incisions, which is more invasive than TIF. This procedure is reserved for select cases when a gastroenterologist believes it is the best option.
Depending on the severity of GERD and individual anatomy, surgeons may modify the fundoplication or use partial wraps.
A gastroenterologist is the best doctor to help discuss the ways to cure GERD permanently. They can help you explore the available treatment options and start you on the path to relief.
Don’t continue to live with chronic heartburn – schedule an appointment today!
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