KPLC 7 News, Lake Charles, Louisiana |Hidden Symptoms of GERD

Hidden Symptoms of GERD

Nearly half of all Americans suffer from gastroesphageal reflux disease, with the biggest symptom being heartburn. But there are other symptoms of gerd that may cause misdiagnosis. KPLC's Laila Morcos has more on the disease and what to look for.

General Vascular and Thoracic Surgeon Ronald Kober is the answer to many patient's prayers.  "At least 40 to 50 percent of Americans suffer from heartburn or gastroesophageal reflux disease," says Dr. Kober. 

Heartburn is the most common symptom of gerd.  But about 20 percent of people with acid reflux have no symptoms of heartburn. "Frequently they're misdiagnosed as having upper respiratory tract infections, asthma and sinusitis," says Dr. Kober, which can be very dangerous. He says, "It can lead to significant complications, ulcerations and internal bleeding.")) Dr. Kober says the worst complication is that it can lead to esophageal cancer.

But this disease is caused, not by what we eat, but by a malfunctioning valve that causes stomach acid to travel back into the esophagus. There is a cure, though ... laparoscopic surgery to correct that malfunctioning valve.  Dr. Kober says, "The results are excellent. About 97 to 99 percent cure of the reflux."  Plus, it's minimally invasive.

But Dr. Kober adds:  Living a healthy lifestyle can help decrease the symptoms of gerd.  He says, "You certainly don't need to smoke or drink coffee or tea, you don't need caffeinated beverages."  And lay off the spicy foods and alcohol .. something hard to do in Southwest Louisiana.    

For more information on heartburn, call the Christus St. Patrick Heartburn Center at 430-GERD.