Talking With Your Patients About GERD
Below, you will find practical tips on sharing information about heartburn and acid reflux disease with your patients. These insights may help you engage patients in a discussion about their condition and appropriate treatment options.
GERD vs acid reflux disease
Most healthcare professionals know these 2 terms are interchangeable, but your patients may not. Try to identify if they are familiar with the term “acid reflux disease” and let them know that occasionally they may hear the term “GERD,” and that it stands for gastroesophageal reflux disease.
Sometimes it's more than just heartburn
While heartburn remains the most commonly reported symptom of acid reflux disease, patients should know that it's not the only symptom. They may also experience associated symptoms such as regurgitation, belching and early satiety.
It can be more serious than they think
While patients may try to control occasional heartburn on their own, they should be made aware that acid reflux disease is not something to be managed without a healthcare professional. Acid reflux disease can be a chronic condition that without proper treatment may cause serious damage to their esophagus.
Other factors that may contribute to GERD symptoms
Patients should know that diet and lifestyle may have an impact on symptoms of GERD. In fact, studies have shown a relationship between the food a person eats, the stress in a person’s life, and GERD symptoms.1-2 In addition, patients should know that being overweight or obese is also a risk factor for GERD.3-6 Smoking is, too, because it can weaken the LES. This may increase the chance of acid being refluxed into the esophagus.
Relief goes beyond medication
Try to reinforce with your patients that a combination of diet, lifestyle changes and the proper medicine is an effective way to control acid reflux symptoms. Not smoking, maintaining a healthy weight and reducing stress are some ways patients can work toward relieving their symptoms while improving their overall health.
