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You are here : 3-RX.com > Medical Encyclopedia > Diseases and Conditions > Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease: Prevention & Expectations
      Category : Health Centers > GERD

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease

Alternate Names : GERD, Heartburn, Reflux Esophagitis

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease | Symptoms & Signs | Diagnosis & Tests | Prevention & Expectations | Treatment & Monitoring

What can be done to prevent the disease?

There is no way to prevent gastroesophageal reflux. Once it develops, symptoms can be minimized by following treatments outlined below.

What are the long-term effects of the disease?

Most GERD sufferers have frequent, severe heartburn. This tears down and damages the cell wall lining of the esophagus. Without treatment, GERD can lead to the following conditions:

  • Barrett's esophagus, a precancerous change in the cells lining the esophagus
  • esophageal cancer
  • esophageal perforation, or a hole in the esophagus
  • esophageal stricture, or narrowing of the esophagus that interferes with eating
  • esophageal ulcers, which damage the lining further
  • esophagitis, or inflammation of the esophagitis
  • What are the risks to others?

    GERD is not contagious and poses no risk to others.


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    Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease: Diagnosis & Tests

     

    Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease: Treatment & Monitoring

    Author: Bill Harrison, MD
    Reviewer: Barbara Mallari, RN, BSN, PHN
    Date Reviewed: 08/20/01



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