AHN Esophageal Institute Draws Attention to Dangers of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease During GERD Awareness Week, Nov. 20-26

PITTSBURGH, PA  – You’ve finished the Thanksgiving feast, and you’re settling down on the sofa to enjoy some football or a nap when a familiar burning sensation creeps into your chest. Like millions of Americans, you’re experiencing the symptoms of heartburn.

For most people with heartburn an over-the-counter medication gets them quickly back to their daily routine. But when people experience more frequent and severe bouts of heartburn, it can be a symptom of a dangerous condition called gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

“During GERD Awareness Week, Nov. 20-26, 2022, we encourage anyone experiencing severe or chronic symptoms of GERD to contact their primary care physicians to learn more about this condition and begin any appropriate treatment,” said Blair Jobe, MD, Director of the Esophageal Institute at Allegheny Health Network (AHN). “GERD, which happens when the contents of the stomach flow back into the esophagus, is a chronic disease that affects millions and can progress to more serious disease if left untreated.”

People with GERD experience the symptoms of heartburn - a burning pain in the chest that often occurs after eating, at night or while lying down, and an acidic taste in the mouth – several times a week. They may experience regurgitation of food, coughing, wheezing, chest pain and difficulty swallowing.

Take a quiz here to find out if your symptoms correspond with symptoms of GERD.

“If you are taking over-the-counter medications for heartburn more than twice a week, or  experiencing severe GERD symptoms, see a physician for evaluation,” Dr. Jobe said. “Unfortunately, untreated GERD can lead to several serious complications. The chronic irritation to the esophagus can lead to inflammation, bleeding and the formation of scar tissue, which in turn leads to pain and problems with swallowing.”

In rare cases, GERD can cause precancerous changes to the esophagus known as Barrett’s esophagus. People with Barrett’s esophagus are at increased risk for esophageal cancer.

“The good news is that effective treatments are available for GERD, including medicines and minimally invasive surgical procedures,” Dr. Jobe said. “Some patients can also manage GERD by avoiding foods or behaviors that trigger symptoms. Particularly as we approach the holiday season, it’s important for people who suffer from heartburn, acid reflux and GERD to try to avoid eating too much, and avoid eating heavy, greasy or fried foods.”

To make an appointment with the AHN Esophageal Institute call 412-359-GERD in the Pittsburgh area and 844-412-GERD in the Erie area Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.

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