Our Services
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease
Gastroenterology Hepatology
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), commonly known as acid reflux, occurs when stomach acid or stomach contents abnormally flow back into the esophagus, causing irritation and inflammation of the esophageal lining. Severe cases can significantly damage the esophageal mucosa, affecting the patient's quality of life.
Symptoms
- Heartburn (burning sensation in the chest)
- Acid reflux into the mouth
- Upper abdominal or chest discomfort
- Difficulty or pain when swallowing
- Chronic cough, throat discomfort, or hoarseness
- Nausea or vomiting
Causes and Risk Factors
Causes
- Poor functioning or relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES)
- Increased pressure in the stomach, pushing contents upward
- Delayed stomach emptying, leading to prolonged exposure to stomach acid
Risk Factors
- Unhealthy eating habits (e.g., high-fat, spicy, or irritating foods)
- Smoking and alcohol consumption
- Obesity or overweight conditions
- High stress or anxiety levels
- Hormonal changes and increased abdominal pressure during pregnancy
- Long-term use of certain medications (e.g., calcium channel blockers, antidepressants)
Potential Complications
- Esophagitis: Chronic inflammation of the esophageal mucosa
- Esophageal ulcers or bleeding
- Esophageal stricture: Narrowing due to scarring from prolonged inflammation
- Barrett's Esophagus: Cellular changes due to chronic acid exposure, increasing esophageal cancer risk
- Increased risk of esophageal cancer
Diagnosis
| Clinical Symptoms and Medical History Evaluation | Doctor will thoroughly inquire about the patient's medical history and symptoms, including the frequency, duration, severity, as well as triggering and relieving factors of the symptoms. |
| Gastroscopy | Gastroscopy allows direct visualization of the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum. The doctor closely examines the esophageal mucosa for signs of inflammation, redness, erosion, or ulceration to determine the severity of the condition. Additionally, endoscopy helps rule out more serious issues such as gastric ulcers, esophageal cancer, or other tumors. During the procedure, the doctor may perform a biopsy of esophageal tissues for further cellular analysis (e.g., to detect Barrett’s Esophagus). |
| 24-hour Esophageal pH Monitoring | Doctor inserts a thin catheter through the patient's nostril into the lower esophagus to continuously monitor the acidity (pH level) for 24 hours. Patients can engage in normal daily activities and meals during the monitoring period. The device records the frequency, duration, timing, and acidity during episodes of acid reflux, providing an accurate assessment of the severity of the condition. This method is one of the most precise diagnostic tools for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). |
| Esophageal Function Testing (Esophageal Manometry) | Doctor places a thin catheter with embedded sensors into the patient’s esophagus and asks the patient to perform swallowing actions. This test measures the muscle contraction strength and coordination of the esophagus and the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). Through this examination, the doctor can identify abnormalities in esophageal function, such as sphincter relaxation or weak closure, providing critical diagnostic information for GERD and assisting in evaluating suitability for surgical intervention. |
Treatments
Lifestyle and Dietary Modifications |
|
Medication |
|
Surgical Treatment (for severe cases or ineffective medication) |
|
FAQ
GERD itself does not directly cause cancer, but prolonged acid reflux can lead to Barrett's Esophagus, which increases the risk of developing esophageal cancer.
Most patients can effectively control symptoms through lifestyle modifications and medication. However, symptoms may recur without lifestyle changes, making a complete cure difficult.
Common triggering foods include high-fat foods, spicy foods, coffee, alcohol, chocolate, mint, citrus fruits, and tomato-based products.
Depending on severity, some patients may require long-term or periodic medication to control stomach acid. As symptoms improve, physicians might gradually adjust or discontinue medications, primarily managing the condition through lifestyle changes.
Related Services
Cholangiocarcinoma
Clinical OncologyGastroenterology HepatologyGeneral Surgery
The Bile duct located between the gallbladder and the duodenum event has a small size, but it has the potential to develop into cancer as know as “Cholangiocarcinoma”, with the risk varying by region. Generally, the older a person is, the higher the likelihood of developing the disease. According to data from the American Cancer Society, the average age of diagnosis for intrahepatic and extrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma is 70 and 72 years, respectively.
Detail
Colonoscopy
Gastroenterology HepatologyGeneral Surgery
Colonoscopy is a medical examination method used to inspect the interior of the colon and rectum. This procedure involves using a long and flexible fiber-optic scope (endoscope) inserted through the rectum to examine the entire colon and assess its condition.
Detail
Colorectal Cancer
Clinical OncologyGastroenterology HepatologyGeneral Surgery
Colorectal Cancer is a common malignant tumour of the digestive system. Early screening and treatment are necessary, and improvement of lifestyle habits is also helpful for prevention.
Detail
Related Articles
Busted: Liver Hemangiomas Are NOT Cancer - Know the Facts!
Too Many Additives & Toxins? May Lead to Liver Cancer & Fatty Liver! Can Eggs Detox? 5 Best Foods to Protect Your Liver
Stomach Cancer Culprit - What You Must Know About H. pylori
Stomach Cancer Culprit - What You Must Know About H. pylori
Colonoscopy Prep Diet: Your 3-Day Low-Residue Meal Plan + Tips!
How to Relieve and Improve Acid Reflux (GERD)
Radiation Proctitis Requires Long-term Management: Effective Hemostasis Can Reduce Rectal Bleeding
Why Are Asians More Prone to Stomach Cancer? Carcinogenic Habits You Should Know!
【World Pancreatic Cancer Day】Fighting the "King of Cancers" – Early Signs of Pancreatic Cancer You Should Know!
What Is Acute Cholecystitis? Diagnosis and Treatment Methods Explained
Do Hemorrhoids Go Away Naturally? How Long Until Recovery? – Causes & Symptoms
Mid-Autumn Festival Feasting: A Risk Factor for Acute Pancreatitis?
Say Goodbye to Fatty Liver! A Healing Diet for a Healthier Liver!
From Hair to Pain: What You Need to Know About Pilonidal Disease!
Who Is at Higher Risk for Gallstones? 4 Key Risk Groups
Can Severe Hernia Lead to Intestinal Necrosis? Symptoms, Causes & Treatment Explained
I'm not overweight, why do I have fatty liver? How can fatty liver be eliminated?
Is Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) Linked to Stress? 5 Effective Ways to Improve Symptoms
Intestinal Microbiota | New Technologies and Early Examination of Polyps Pay Close Attention to Intestinal Health Without Delay
Frequent Stomach Pain and Bloating After Meals? You Might Have Functional Dyspepsia (FD)!
.jpg)
Early Warning Signs of Esophageal Cancer – Do You Recognize Them?
Intestinal Microbiota | Non-invasive Testing Rapid and Accurate, Helps Detect Colonic Polyps to Prevent Cancer Risk ASPS
Can Constipation Lead to Cancer? Doctor Recommends 10 Foods to Boost Bowel Movements
New Methods for Colorectal Cancer Screening: Alternatives to Colonoscopy
Here When You Need Us
HEAL Medical (Central)
A multi-specialty centre providing premium outpatient services for primary and specialist care.
1331, 13th Floor, Central Building, 1-3 Pedder Street, Central, Hong Kong
Mon - Fri 8:30am - 6:00pm
Sat 9:00am - 1:00pm
Sun & Public Holidays Closed
Sat 9:00am - 1:00pm
Sun & Public Holidays Closed
HEAL Medical (Tsim Sha Tsui)
Providing comprehensive and high-quality specialist medical services to patients.
Unit. 1908-09, 19/F, Mira Place Tower A, 132 Nathan Road, Tsim Sha Tsui
Mon - Fri 9:00am - 6:00pm
Sat 9:00am - 1:00pm
Sun & Public Holidays Closed
Sat 9:00am - 1:00pm
Sun & Public Holidays Closed
HEAL Oncology
A boutique oncology centre providing comprehensive day procedure care.
16/F, Entertainment Building, 30 Queens Road Central, Central, Hong Kong
Mon - Fri 9:00am - 6:00pm
Sat 9:00am - 1:00pm
Sun & Public Holidays Closed
Sat 9:00am - 1:00pm
Sun & Public Holidays Closed
HEAL Fertility
Providing world class reproductive medicine services in a friendly, non-judgemental environment.
10/F, One Chinachem Central, 22 Des Voeux Road Central, Central, Hong Kong
Mon-Fri 9:00am - 6:00pm
Sat 9:00am - 1:00pm
Sun & Public Holidays Closed
Sat 9:00am - 1:00pm
Sun & Public Holidays Closed
HEAL Medical (Central)
1331, 13th Floor, Central Building, 1-3 Pedder Street, Central, Hong Kong
Mon - Fri 8:30am - 6:00pm
Sat 9:00am - 1:00pm
Sun & Public Holidays Closed
Sat 9:00am - 1:00pm
Sun & Public Holidays Closed
HEAL Medical (Tsim Sha Tsui)
Unit. 1908-09, 19/F, Mira Place Tower A, 132 Nathan Road, Tsim Sha Tsui
Mon - Fri 9:00am - 6:00pm
Sat 9:00am - 1:00pm
Sun & Public Holidays Closed
Sat 9:00am - 1:00pm
Sun & Public Holidays Closed
HEAL Oncology
16/F, Entertainment Building, 30 Queens Road Central, Central, Hong Kong
Mon - Fri 9:00am - 6:00pm
Sat 9:00am - 1:00pm
Sun & Public Holidays Closed
Sat 9:00am - 1:00pm
Sun & Public Holidays Closed
HEAL Fertility
10/F, One Chinachem Central, 22 Des Voeux Road Central, Central, Hong Kong
Mon-Fri 9:00am - 6:00pm
Sat 9:00am - 1:00pm
Sun & Public Holidays Closed
Sat 9:00am - 1:00pm
Sun & Public Holidays Closed