Reflux

Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD) is a condition where acid from the stomach flows backwards up into the oesophagus.

GORD is generally caused by a weakening or disruption to the oesophageal sphincter complex.

This can lead to classic symptoms of heartburn, regurgitation, and chest pain. Atypical symptoms such as chronic cough, hoarse voice, pneumonia, sinusitis and dental erosion may also be present.

Treatment begins with lifestyle and dietary modifications followed by acid suppressing medications (PPI).

When symptoms persist despite medication or there is a structural cause like a hiatus hernia, then surgical options are considered. The most common anti-reflux operation is a fundoplication.