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Your doctor will first review your symptoms and medical history. Based on this information, lifestyle changes or medications may be recommended to manage your symptoms.
If symptoms persist or complications are suspected, your doctor may recommend one or more of the following tests:
Gastroscopy (upper gastrointestinal endoscopy), which allows the doctor to closely examine the lining of the oesophagus, stomach, and upper small intestine. A biopsy may be taken if necessary.
Upper gastrointestinal series (barium swallow), which is a series of X-rays to detect structural problems such as hiatal hernias, oesophageal strictures, or ulcers.
Oesophageal impedance monitoring using a 24-hour wired catheter, which measures acid (and sometimes non-acid) exposure in the oesophagus during normal daily activities.
Wireless oesophageal monitoring, which is a non-wired capsule attaches to the oesophagus for several days to measure acid exposure and correlate it with symptoms.
Oesophageal manometry, which assesses oesophageal muscle function and the strength of the lower oesophageal sphincter.
How is GERD treated?
There are different treatment options available for GERD, which depend on the severity of the condition. Your doctor will evaluate your condition and suggest the most suitable treatment.
Lifestyle and dietary changes
Your doctor may recommend the following changes:
Avoiding late meals
Avoiding food that induces your acid reflux
Wearing comfortable clothing to avoid pressure on the stomach
Maintaining a healthy weight
Eating smaller meals
Raising your pillow
Quitting smoking
Prescription medications
If you experience moderate-to-severe GERD symptoms that are not relieved by lifestyle changes and over-the-counter medicine, your doctor may prescribe certain medications for your condition. These prescription medications may include:
Several types of proton pump inhibitors to lower the amount of acid made by the stomach
Prokinetics, which help accelerate stomach emptying
Surgery
Your doctor may recommend surgery if your GERD symptoms fail to improve with lifestyle changes and medicine. These may include:
Fundoplication. This surgery is done using a laparoscope and is the most common surgery for GERD. The goal is to increase pressure to the lower end of the oesophagus and reduce reflux. It often leads to long-term reflux control.
Endoscopic techniques. Endoscopic sewing and radiofrequency may be used to tighten the sphincter muscle. These newer procedures may be suitable for certain patients.
