Obesity Health Issues - Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
What is it?
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease is a serious condition that can cause esophagitis, Barrett’s esophagus, and esophageal cancer. Injury can occur to the esophagus due to chronic exposure to stomach acid. Excess body weight may cause valve at the top of the stomach to weaken and allow acid to escape into the esophagus. While GERD may occur regardless of a person’s age, gender, or body mass, complications tend to be more severe in the obese.
How is it affected by bariatric surgery?
Gastric bypass surgery or lap band surgery improves GERD by reducing the amount of stomach acid produced.
What success have patients found through bariatric surgery?
In 2000, a study of 500 patients showed complete resolution of GERD in 98 percent of patients. Another study found that all participants who had gastric bypass surgery or lap band surgery reported an improvement in or no symptoms of GERD. |
