GERD - Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease

Volunteer for our clinical trials and research studies on GERD, heartburn and acid reflux

GERD stands for gastroesophageal reflux disease and refers to the backward flow of acid from the stomach up into the esophagus. GERD, also known as acid reflux disease or persistent heartburn, is a chronic disorder affecting over 15 million Americans.

GERD may cause the following symptoms, often severe enough to diminish the quality of life for those who have the disease:

• Burning chest pain behind the breastbone moving toward the neck and throat often lasting as long as two hours. It may be improve or be worsened by eating food
• Bitter or sour taste of acid in the back of the throat
• Trouble swallowing
• Cough or wheeze
• Upset stomach
• Hoarse voice or sore throat

GERD is diagnosed by a gastroenterologist through physical examinations, x-rays and endoscopies, and acid studies.

Complications of GERD may include severe chest pain sometimes mimicking a heart attack, a narrowing or obstruction of the esophagus, vomiting , shortness of breath or development of Barrett’s esophagus, a pre-malignant condition of the esophagus.

GERD is caused when the lower esophageal sphincter relaxes inappropriately, allowing stomach acid to reflux, i.e. flow backward into the esophagus. The prolonged contact of these acidic digestive enzymes injures the esophagus and produces a burning discomfort. Current GERD treatment includes taking medication and making the following lifestyle modifications:

• Avoid foods and beverages which contribute to acid indigestion: chocolate, coffee, peppermint, greasy or spicy foods, tomato products and alcoholic beverages.
• Stop smoking
• Avoid tight clothing
• Reduce weight if obese
• Avoid eating 2-3 hours before going to sleep
• Elevating the head of the bed

Living with GERD, acid reflux disease and persistent heartburn can cause pain and discomfort and impede your normal, everyday activities. Frequently, GERD symptoms will not be reduced by lifestyle modifications and over the counter medications. However, GERD research and clinical trials are offering hopeful insights and innovative treatments that can help decrease and neutralize stomach acids, protect the lower esophageal sphincter and improve gastric emptying.

If you have been diagnosed with – or think that you may have – GERD, acid reflux disease or persistent heartburn, you may want to consider being a part of one of our clinical trials. Our GERD clinical trials are fully supervised and observed by board certified gastroenterologists. By volunteering for our GERD clinical trials you will have the opportunity to try promising new treatments and help in the understanding of your condition. If you are eligible for our GERD clinical trials, all medications, examinations and laboratory tests are provided to you at no cost. Most clinical trials also include compensation for your time and travel expenses.

Interested in participating in our GERD clinical trials and research studies?

If you would like to be a part of our clinical trials and research studies for GERD, heartburn and acid-reflux, please contact us. We encourage you to read through our site to learn more about clinical trials and the highly qualified physicians that conduct all of our medical research studies. We look forward to serving you.