Heartburns have become so commonplace in modern life that many have started believing it’s the new normal.

However, it’s definitely a disease if it’s prolonged and persistent; and goes by the scientific term- Gastro Esophageal Reflux Disease (GERD).

It is estimated that the prevalence of GERD is 10-20% in America and Europe and 5% in Asia.

The disease is characterised by the burning sensation in the chest and regurgitation of good in the chest and throat after eating. Atypically, for some patient it may also be present with chronic cough, change in voice and difficulty in eating.

It’s important to treat it since it is distressing to pursuing normal activities. If left untreated, it may progress to cause chemical damage to esophagus and even cancer.

Many patients can be treated with medicines effectively. The antacid liquids and oral drugs need to be taken over long period of time for good results.

Some patients however will need surgery that goes by the term fundoplication. It is a Laparoscopic surgery that aims to strengthen the lower end of esophagus thereby preventing acid and food to enter it.

Patients have tremendous benefit from this procedure and may help patients go off medications permanently. It’s particularly helpful in relieving reflux, a very distressing symptom for these patients.

All patients with heartburns should have clinical evaluation to establish if they have GERD and then lab tests to see if they need medications or surgery.

Medical science has come a long way and nowadays the treatment has become very streamlined in a good center.