How can GORD be treated?

The doctor needs to know as much about the person's symptoms as possible, to be able to recommend the most appropriate treatment in order to:

• relieve symptoms
• allow the oesophagus to recover, if it has become inflamed
• stop the symptoms from recurring
  

The doctor can choose from a range of treatments to relieve the symptoms of GORD. The three main medications for GORD are proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), H2-receptor antagonists (also called H2-blockers) and antacids.

Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs)

PPIs are a common type of treatment for GORD symptoms. They work by reducing the amount of acid that the stomach produces. In doing so, they limit the amount of acid available to flow back into the oesophagus, so the irritation is reduced and if the lining of the oesophagus has been damaged, a chance to recover. PPIs can be prescribed by your GP.

H2-receptor antagonists

Like the PPIs, H2-receptor antagonists reduce the amount of acid in the stomach, thus again limiting the damage to the oesophagus and allowing time for it to recover. They can be bought from your community pharmacist or can be prescribed by your GP.

Antacids

Antacids act by partially neutralising the acid that has already been produced. They can be bought from your community pharmacist or prescribed by your GP.

Lifestyle advice

Your doctor, nurse or pharmacist may recommend some lifestyle changes or provide general advice in addition to drug treatment. This may include advice on diet, smoking cessation and raising the height of the bed.

Antireflux surgery

Surgeons can repair the valve mechanism between the stomach and oesophagus to stop reflux, using keyhole surgery. People who may be suitable are usually unhappy with, or intolerant of, the above medical options. Decisions about surgery need specialist advice. Antireflux surgery may be appropriate for younger patients with chronic symptoms.