Is it the barbecued ribs and hot dogs - Patients - American College of Gastroenterology

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Is it the barbecued ribs and hot dogs or something more serious?
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"Whether it's the tantalizing smell of the grill, or a craving for a hot dog with chili, people often eat foods they know will trigger their heartburn," said Joel Richter, M.D., chairman, Gastroenterology Department, The Cleveland Clinic Foundation and past president of the American College of Gastroenterology (ACG). "What these people do not know is that frequent heartburn may be a sign that they are suffering from a serious digestive disease known as gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD."

GERD occurs when the muscle valve at the lower end of the esophagus malfunctions, allowing a backward flow of acid from the stomach into the esophagus. Without effective treatment, GERD can cause serious complications such as severe chest pain, esophageal stricture (a narrowing or obstruction of the esophagus), bleeding, asthma-like symptoms, or Barrett's esophagus (a pre-cancerous condition of the esophagus).

More than 40 percent of Americans experience heartburn at least once a month, and even among the 15 million daily sufferers, many are reluctant to consult their physician. Many people do not know enough about heartburn to realize their problem may be something more serious, such as GERD.

"Many of my patients suffer heartburn for months and even years before they come to see me," said Dr. Richter. "The good news is that effective treatment for heartburn and GERD is available that can give sufferers tremendous relief and allow them to eat their favorite foods and still get a good night's sleep."

Some patients with infrequent heartburn can be treated by lifestyle modification and proper use of over-the-counter drugs. However, people who experience heartburn more than twice a week should visit their doctor or a gastroenterologist, a specialist in gastrointestinal disorders. Through a national education campaign, ACG hopes to dispel some of the confusion about heartburn problems and GERD. ACG has set up a toll-free number, 1-800-HRT-BURN, that provides callers with information on heartburn and a brochure on GERD.

The American College of Gastroenterology was formed in 1932 to advance the scientific study and medical treatment of disorders of the gastrointestinal tract. The College promotes the highest standard in medical education and is guided by its commitment to meet the needs of clinical gastroenterology practitioners.

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