It is when part of the stomach moves up into the thorax, due to weakness of the tissues surrounding the oesophageal hiatus in the diaphragm. Its development may be favoured by several factors, including obesity, smoking and increased abdominal pressure (due to constipation, pregnancy and/or heavy lifting).
Most cases are symptom-free, but some patients may experience symptoms such as burning or heartburn in the chest and throat, difficulty swallowing, frequent belching, nausea and vomiting. Gastric reflux can reach the mouth, causing a sour or bitter taste known as pyrosis.
Diagnosis involves a combination of the patient's medical history assessment and a barium X-ray or a digestive endoscopy.
Treatment focuses on the prevention of triggers and the reduction of gastric acid production through the use of medication. In severe cases with many symptoms, surgical intervention may be necessary.
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