Acid Reflux (gerd)
Gastro-Esophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
A common condition affecting at least 1 in 10 Singapore residents. While some GERD cases can be easily treated with a short course of antacids, H2-receptor antagonists (H2RAs) or proton-pump inhibitors (PPIs), up to one-third of patients continue to be bothered by reflux symptoms despite adequate medications.
While heartburn and regurgitation are classic GERD symptoms, some patients may also experience pain, throat discomfort, hoarseness of voice and nausea. An early endoscopy may be necessary to rule out gastrointestinal cancer in patients displaying concerning symptoms.
Alarming symptoms:
- Unexplained weight loss
- Difficult or painful swallowing
- Persistent vomiting
- Digestive tract bleeding such as passing out blood/black stool or vomiting blood
- Iron deficiency anemia
- Persistent abdominal pain
- Family history of gastrointestinal cancer
- Old age
In addition to the correct use of appropriate anti-GERD medications, treatment of GERD also requires patients to undergo dietary and lifestyle changes. Surgery or advanced endoscopic therapy may be utilised to treat severe GERD not responding to medications.
If you are unsure about any symptoms, schedule an appointment with Dr. Tan today for a comprehensive investigation to ensure that serious issues are ruled out.
located at
Mount Elizabeth Hospital
Our clinic is located at Mount Elizabeth Hospital (Orchard) within the famed Orchard Road shopping belt. For over 40 years, Mount Elizabeth Hospital (Orchard) has been the leading medical hub in Asia Pacific providing cutting edge medical services to patients in Singapore as well as those from all around the region.