GERD
GERD is gastroesophageal reflux disease, in which stomach contents repeatedly flow back into the esophagus.
When to get help quickly: Prompt review is important if swallowing becomes difficult, there is weight loss, vomiting of blood, black stool, or chest pain that might be confused with heart disease.
Common symptoms
Common symptoms include heartburn, sour fluid coming up into the mouth, chest discomfort after meals, bloating, chronic cough, hoarseness, or a burning feeling in the throat.
When imaging helps
Imaging helps in selected cases when swallowing is difficult, a structural problem is suspected, or doctors need to look for complications rather than simple reflux alone.
What radiology does
Fluoroscopy or other imaging may help in selected cases, especially when swallowing problems or structural concerns are part of the picture.
What usually happens next
Treatment may include diet changes, medicines, and specialist follow-up depending on severity and complications.
Seen this on your report?
Your doctor or the radiologist who wrote it can tell you what it means for you.