Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

Home » Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) » GERD Research

GERD Research

Although the exact cause for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) remains unknown, recent studies indicate that a combination of several factors may be involved in the development of chronic heartburn, indigestion, and reflux. Research is being conducted to help doctors identify additional GERD risk factors and learn more about how these factors increase the risk for and contribute to gastroesophageal reflux disease.

Studies also are exploring the association between heartburn and certain medical conditions, such as asthma, Barrett's esophagus, and throat infections (e.g., pharyngitis, laryngitis). Other research is being conducted to develop better methods for diagnosing GERD, to develop new treatments for the condition, and to discover ways to prevent chronic heartburn.

Areas of GERD research, newer treatments, and treatment options that are being investigated in studies and clinical trials, include the following:

• Benefits of treating reflux that is non-acidic or only mildly acidic
• Endoscopic procedures to reduce gastroesophageal reflux (e.g., transesophageal radiofrequency [Stretta procedure], endoscopic suturing, endoscopic gastroplasty, endoscopic injection and implantation)
• GERD medications
• Linx™ Reflux Management System (minimally invasive procedure in which a magnetic band is implanted to help support the lower esophageal sphincter and prevent reflux)
• Ways to treat GERD that has not responded to surgery (e.g., fundoplication)

© 1998-2009 Healthcommunities.com, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) Resources

	Questions to Ask Your Doctor About Your GI Condition The more knowledge you have, the easier it is to make decisions about your gi condition. Print this free handout to take with you on your next office visit.	Advertising Disclaimer
	Join Our Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) Forum Do you have a question, want to share medical advice, or just need to discuss your situation with someone else having a similar experience? The healthchannels forum is a resource for everyone to share and discuss their health and medical needs with others.
	Living with...Share your story Do you have a personal health story that you would like to share with others? As a source of free patient education, our goal is to provide our users with trustworthy information and support from others. That's why we've started our "Living with..." sections.
	Our "Living With..." support pages are a place to share experiences about living with a certain condition, disease, disorder, or illness and for loved ones of those dealing with health-related issues. Many people, especially when newly diagnosed, find comfort in knowing that others are having a similar experience. Help others by sharing your story. View stories already submitted.
To quickly access health information from your website's browser, download Healthcommunities.com's healthchannels toolbar. Advertising Disclaimer