Gastroesophageal reflux disease
GERD occurs when a weakened lower esophageal sphincter allows stomach acid to escape upward, leading to painful irritation and long-term tissue inflammation, Left unmanaged, frequent flare-ups can disrupt sleep, daily nutrition, and overall comfort, Through advanced endoscopic diagnostics and tailored medical therapies, our gastroenterology team focuses on resolving persistent symptoms and safeguarding long-term digestive health.
About Gastroesophageal reflux disease
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a digestive condition in which stomach contents repeatedly flow back into the esophagus, causing irritation and recurring symptoms. It is more persistent than occasional acid reflux and may require medical treatment when symptoms become frequent or affect daily life.
Common acid reflux symptoms include heartburn, regurgitation, chest discomfort, difficulty swallowing, and chronic cough. Symptoms may worsen after meals, when bending over, or while lying down.
Early assessment can help confirm the diagnosis, rule out other digestive conditions, and guide the most appropriate GERD treatment. At University Hospital Sharjah, our Gastroenterology team provides specialist-led evaluation, advanced endoscopic diagnostics, and personalized care for reflux and other digestive disorders.
Symptoms & Related Concerns
Heartburn
A burning sensation behind the breastbone that may rise toward the throat.
Acid Regurgitation
Stomach contents or acid may travel back into the throat or mouth.
Difficulty Swallowing
Swallowing may feel uncomfortable, painful, or as though food is becoming stuck.
Chest Discomfort
Some patients experience chest pain or pressure associated with reflux.
Persistent Cough
Reflux may contribute to chronic coughing or throat irritation.
Hoarseness
Repeated acid exposure may affect the throat and voice.
When to Consult a Doctor
Consider seeing a gastroenterologist in Sharjah if:
Causes & Risk Factors
PRIMARY CAUSES
- Reduced lower esophageal sphincter function
- Hiatal hernia
- Delayed stomach emptying
- Increased pressure within the abdomen
- Certain medications
- Pregnancy
RISK FACTORS
- Overweight or obesity
- Pregnancy
- Smoking or secondhand smoke exposure
- Certain medications
- Large or late meals
- Lying down shortly after eating
- Individual food or drink triggers
Diagnosis & Assessment
Gastroenterology Consultation
Review of symptoms, frequency of reflux, eating habits, medications, medical history, and previous treatments.
Clinical Assessment
Evaluation of symptom patterns and any warning signs such as difficulty swallowing, bleeding, persistent vomiting, or unexplained weight loss.
Upper Gastrointestinal Endoscopy
An upper endoscopy may be used to examine the esophagus and stomach and identify inflammation, narrowing, ulcers, or other conditions. UHS provides upper gastroscopy as part of its gastroenterology services.
Reflux Testing When Needed
Esophageal pH monitoring may be recommended to measure acid exposure and help confirm GERD, particularly when symptoms are unclear or do not improve with treatment.
Treatment & Care Options
Lifestyle & Dietary Management
Care may include avoiding personal food triggers, maintaining a healthy weight, stopping smoking, avoiding meals close to bedtime, and adjusting sleeping position when recommended.
Acid-Reducing Medications
Treatment may include antacids for mild symptoms, H2 blockers, or proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) to reduce stomach acid and support healing of the esophagus.
Management of Persistent GERD
Patients with ongoing symptoms may require medication adjustment, further testing, or assessment for complications such as esophagitis or narrowing of the esophagus.
Procedural or Surgical Treatment
In selected patients with persistent GERD despite appropriate medical treatment, anti-reflux procedures or surgery may be considered after specialist evaluation.
GERD treatment is individualized according to symptom severity, underlying cause, response to previous treatment, and any complications.
UHS Approach
At University Hospital Sharjah, our Gastroenterology team provides personalized GERD care supported by specialist assessment, advanced endoscopy, evidence-based treatment, and coordinated digestive health management.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main cause of gastroesophageal reflux disease?
Which foods can trigger gastroesophageal reflux disease?
Rather than avoiding every possible trigger, patients may benefit from identifying which foods consistently worsen their own heartburn or reflux symptoms.
How can I avoid acid reflux?
Avoiding meals shortly before lying down
Maintaining a healthy weight
Stopping smoking
Eating smaller meals
Identifying and limiting personal food triggers
Elevating the upper body during sleep when recommended
What treatment options are available for gastroesophageal reflux disease?
The most appropriate GERD treatment depends on symptom severity, diagnostic findings, and how well the patient responds to initial therapy.
What are the dangers of untreated acid reflux?
Ready to take the next step?
Frequent heartburn, persistent acid reflux, difficulty swallowing, or symptoms that interfere with sleep and daily activities should not be ignored. Book an appointment with the Gastroenterology team at University Hospital Sharjah for a personalized GERD assessment and treatment plan.