Reviewed by medical experts • For informational purposes only
GERD can progress from occasional reflux to oesophagitis and complications. Early care and review lower the risk.
GERD has no single official staging system, but doctors describe how it can progress when acid exposure continues. Most people stay in the early stages.
Stage 1: Occasional reflux
Heartburn after large or trigger meals, less than twice a week. Lifestyle change often controls it.
Stage 2: Frequent reflux
Symptoms two or more times a week, sometimes with night symptoms. A doctor may advise acid-lowering medicine for a few weeks.
Stage 3: Oesophagitis
Acid inflames and erodes the lining of the food pipe. Endoscopy shows erosions graded A to D. Treatment is needed for healing.
Stage 4: Complications
Not everyone progresses
Many people stay at a mild level for life. Long-standing, severe or untreated symptoms, obesity, smoking and age over 50 raise the chance of progression.
What you can do
Treat symptoms early, change triggers, and follow the doctor's advice on tests and review.
Key point
Difficulty swallowing, weight loss, blood or black stools needs prompt medical care. Chest pain with sweating or breathlessness: call 112 or 102.
Before you see a doctor
Bring a list of all your medicines and supplements to the appointment, along with a note of when symptoms occur, what you ate, and whether they wake you at night. This helps your doctor choose the right tests and treatment without delay.
Written By
Dr. Daksh
BDS
Reviewed By
Dr. Varun Gupta
MD Pharmacology, MBBS
Last updated on
27 Sep 2022 • 06:23 PM (IST)
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Prevent GERD flares with a healthy weight, smaller meals, early dinner, no smoking and limiting personal triggers.
GERD medicines include antacids, alginates, H2 blockers and PPIs. A doctor should guide dose and duration.
GERD happens when stomach acid flows back into the food pipe. Causes include a weak valve, obesity, pregnancy and late meals.
GERD causes heartburn and sour regurgitation. Chest pain with sweating or breathlessness is an emergency, not reflux.
A GERD diet limits fried food, fizzy drinks and late meals and favours smaller, regular meals. Triggers vary by person.
