Our Operating Hours:

Mon to Fri : 9am to 5pm
Sat            : 9am to 12pm
Closed on Sun & Public Holidays 

Novena Medical Center

Unit 09-01

What is GERD?

Gastroesophageal Reflux or GERD is a common cause of gastric pain. In Singapore, it is more frequent cause of gastric pain than traditional peptic ulcer disease. It is a physical condtion in which acid from the stomach flows backward up into the esophagus.

Unlike the stomach, the esophagus does not have a protective lining against stomach juices, so prolonged exposure can lead to pain, inflammation and ulceration. Common symptoms include heartburn, a bitter taste in the mouth, sensation of bloatedness and often backache. The gastric pain can be quite distressing and affects the patient the whole day long. Prolonged GERD can lead to ulceration, strictures, mucosal changes like Barret’s esophagus which can ultimately result in a higher incidence of  gastro-esophageal cancer.

GERD can be accurately assessed with gastroscopy. It is important to investigate this condtion if symptoms are prolonged and do not respond to treatment.