Gastro-oesophageal Reflux Disease (GORD)
This is a common, chronic and relapsing condition which presents with heartburn (a burning sensation behind the breast bone or sternum), regurgitation (liquids or solids rising from stomach into gullet) or waterbrash (a bitter or metallic taste at the back of the mouth). It is more common in middle age and in over weight individuals. The underlying problem is due to the reflux or movement of stomach acid into the gullet (oesophagus) and then spending longer than normal in contact with the gullet lining. Occasionally, the acid may damage the lining of the gullet (oesophagitis)which may vary from mild (patchy inflammation or erosions) to severe (with widespread ulceration and possibly, bleeding or even scarring). Acid-induced damage may be more likely in patients with a hiatus hernia (see Hiatus Hernia).
Most patients respond to treatment with a drug called a proton pump inhibitor, such as omeprazole, which dramatically decreases the amount of acid produced by the stomach and thereby decreases the amount of acid refluxed as well as healing any acid-induced damage.