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Dr Motheo T. Zimba Inc.Specialist Surgeon
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Reflux and heartburn

Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD)

Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease occurs when stomach contents repeatedly flow back into the oesophagus. It may cause heartburn, acid regurgitation, chest discomfort, persistent coughing or difficulty swallowing.

Common symptoms

  • Heartburn and a burning discomfort behind the breastbone
  • Acid or fluid regurgitation into the throat or mouth
  • Chest discomfort once cardiac causes have been excluded
  • Persistent cough, hoarseness or throat irritation
  • Difficulty or discomfort on swallowing
  • Hiatus hernia contributing to reflux symptoms

When to be assessed, and diagnostic options

  1. Recurring reflux should be assessed when symptoms persist despite treatment, return each time medication is stopped, or are accompanied by swallowing difficulty, bleeding or weight loss
  2. Gastroscopy, with biopsy where this is clinically indicated
  3. pH-impedance monitoring to confirm whether symptoms are related to reflux episodes
  4. Oesophageal manometry to assess oesophageal function before certain treatment or surgical decisions

Management options

Management may include lifestyle measures, medical treatment such as acid suppression, and surgical options such as laparoscopic anti-reflux repair where these are appropriate. Treatment is based on your symptoms, your test results and clinical assessment, and no cure or guaranteed outcome can be promised.

This information is general and does not replace a consultation. No outcome can be guaranteed, and the approach appropriate for you is confirmed only after a full specialist assessment by Dr Motheo T. Zimba.

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