Overview

Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GERD) happens when stomach acid flows back up into the oesophagus, causing heartburn, regurgitation and, over time, irritation or scarring of the oesophageal lining. Left untreated, this irritation can lead to swallowing difficulty (dysphagia) — either from inflammation, or from a narrowing (stricture) where scar tissue has built up. Swallowing difficulty can also arise from other causes, including motility disorders of the oesophagus, so any new or persistent swallowing problem deserves proper assessment.

Common signs and symptoms

• Heartburn, regurgitation or an acid taste in the mouth
• A sensation of food getting stuck in the chest or throat
• Pain when swallowing, or needing to eat more slowly and carefully
• Chronic cough, hoarseness or throat clearing linked to reflux

New or worsening difficulty swallowing is considered an “alarm” symptom that should always be assessed promptly, since — while usually due to reflux — it occasionally has a more serious cause.

What to expect at A Bit of Life Clinic

Assessment typically starts with a gastroscopy to look directly at the oesophagus and stomach lining, and may include oesophageal manometry (measuring the muscle function of the swallowing tube) or pH monitoring to confirm and quantify reflux. Treatment is tailored to what’s found — from acid-suppressing medication and lifestyle changes, through to endoscopic dilation (gently stretching a narrowed area) where a stricture is identified — with everything explained clearly so you understand why a particular treatment is being recommended.