Symptoms and Diagnosis
By Sharon Gillson, About.com Guide
Symptoms of GERD
Gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) does not close properly and stomach contents reflux back up into the esophagus. Knowing the symptoms of GERD, whether for an adult or an infant or child, can lead to earlier diagnosis.
- Symptoms of GERD in Adults
- Symptoms of Gastro Reflux in Infants
- Symptoms of Gastro Reflux in Children
- Symptoms of Gastro Reflux in Teens
Symptoms of Hiatal Hernias
A hiatal hernia occurs when the upper part of the stomach pushes through an opening in the diaphragm, and up into the chest. This opening is called a esophageal hiatus or diaphragmatic hiatus.
Symptoms of Peptic Ulcers
An ulcer that occurs in the stomach is called a stomach or gastric ulcer. An ulcer that occurs in the first part of the small intestine is called a duodenal ulcer. Collectively these ulcers are known as peptic ulcers. An ulcer occurs when the lining of the stomach or duodenal becomes eroded by the stomach acid. Knowing the symptoms can lead to an earlier diagnosis.
Diagnostic Tests
Heartburn that occurs two or more times a week should be evaluated by a doctor to determine what's causing the problem. The doctor will use specific diagnostic tests to determine if your heartburn is something more serious such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
Diagnosing GERD
Chronic heartburn may be an indication of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease. If heartburn occurs two or more times per week, a doctor can use one of several methods to determine a diagnosis.
