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Non-Erosive Reflux Disease

Reflux disease is an uncomfortable disorder where the gastrointestinal system regurgitates food back up the esophagus and is accompanied by heartburn. Gastric-esophageal reflux disease (GERD) is an extremely common condition. It is caused by overeating, laying prone after a meal and by being overweight. Often, reflux disease results in erosion of the tissues of the esophagus. However, in the early stages of the disease reflux does not cause erosion.

  1. About

    • Non-erosive reflux disorder (NERD) is a separate disorder from GERD, according to recent research reported by Ronnie Fass, M.D. of Southern Arizona VA Healthcare System. It is thought that approximately 40 percent of the population in the United States suffers from GERD. However, NERD is reported less often and thought to affect approximately 20 percent of those who report GERD symptoms. NERD is believed to not be the result of digestive acid, and individuals with this condition have normal esophageal muscosa.

    Symptoms

    • According to Fass, the symptoms of NERD are very similar to typical GERD. These include discomfort in the form of a burning sensation from the stomach and esophagus. Inflammation of the esophagus is common as acid pushes up into it. Additionally, individuals who suffer from dyspepsia may experience the need to burp more often than normal and may also have occasional regurgitation of food that has been eaten recently.

    Treatments

    • Medication treatment for NERD falls into three categories--antacids, H2 blockers and proton pump inhibitors. According to Fass, for mild cases of NERD, physicians may recommend lifestyle changes and taking over-the-counter antacids. These are effective for temporary relief from symptoms. H2 blockers may require a prescription, although they are also available over the counter. Common medications include Pepcid, Tagamet and Zantac. Proton pump blockers are only available by prescription and include Prevacid and Nexium.

    Prevention

    • Most commonly, lifestyle changes are required for prevention of NERD, according to Fass. Doctors recommend quitting smoking and use of tobacco products. Additionally, avoiding spicy foods that provoke acid production is recommended. Other recommendations include avoiding eating late in the evening, raising the head of the bed, losing weight, and reducing or stopping the use of alcohol. In short, any activity that results in acid production should be avoided.

    Acid-Producing Foods

    • According to Fass, one of the significant aspects of NERD is the types of foods being consumed. Certain foods produce more acid in the digestive tract and stomach than others and should be avoided by individuals with NERD and GERD. Foods to be avoided include citrus fruits, fried foods, foods that are overly spicy, tomato products, chocolate, pepper and peppermint. Beverages can also be a source of stomach acid and drinks to avoid include citrus drinks, alcohol, and caffeinated and carbonated drinks.

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