What is gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)? GERD is the reflux of gastroduodenal contents into the esophagus causing symptoms such as heartburn, which can cause reflux esophagitis, and damage to tissues other than the esophagus, such as the throat and airway. What are the manifestations of gastroesophageal reflux disease? Reflux irritation causing esophageal symptoms: heartburn, chest pain, acid reflux, belching, regurgitation, dysphagia, etc.; Irritation symptoms outside the esophagus: pharyngitis, hoarseness, foreign body sensation in the throat, blockage sensation in the throat, chronic cough, asthma, aspiration pneumonia, snoring, etc.; Complications: upper gastrointestinal bleeding, esophageal stricture, Barrett’s esophagus, etc. Causes of gastroesophageal reflux disease? Gastroesophageal motility disorders caused by a variety of factors, mainly caused by lower lower esophageal sphincter (LES) pressure, transient LES relaxation, weakened ability of the esophageal body to clear food, irritation and damage to the esophageal mucosa by reflux (including gastric acid and bile), etc. What tests are needed to diagnose GERD? The diagnosis of GERD starts with gastroscopy to exclude organic diseases of the gastroesophagus. 24-hour esophageal pH monitoring and esophageal manometry are important methods for GERD diagnosis. What medications are needed to treat GERD? Targeted treatment based on 24-hour esophageal pH monitoring and esophageal manometry test results to control symptoms, reduce recurrence and prevent complications, and achieve cure. Acid-suppressing drugs: omeprazole, pantoprazole, etc. (4-8 weeks of treatment); ranitidine, famotidine (8-12 weeks of treatment). Esophageal mucosa-protective drugs: Daxil (4-8 weeks of treatment) Prokinetic drugs: morpholine, mosapride (4-8 weeks of treatment) What should I pay attention to when I have GERD? Lifestyle changes: e.g. elevate the head of the bed by 15-20 cm, avoid eating 2 hours before bedtime, reduce all factors that affect the increase of abdominal pressure, such as obesity, constipation, tight girdle, etc. Change of diet: avoid eating foods that lower LES pressure, such as high fat, chocolate, coffee, strong tea, etc., quit smoking, abstain from alcohol, etc.