November is GERD Awareness Month

CROSBY — November is GERD Awareness Month. While many people experience occasional heartburn, frequent symptoms may be a sign of a more serious condition known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). During everyday routines, many people dismiss symptoms, but physicians at Cuyuna Regional Medical Center (CRMC) say ongoing reflux should not be ignored. GERD affects about 20 percent of Americans, or roughly 60 to 70 million people, making it one of the most common digestive conditions in the country. GERD occurs when stomach acid repeatedly flows back into the esophagus, causing irritation. The most common symptom is heartburn, often described as a burning sensation in the chest after eating or when lying down. Other symptoms may include regurgitation, difficulty swallowing, a chronic cough, or a sore throat.

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