GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease) and ulcers are often considered the same condition because both are related to digestive problems and have similar symptoms, such as pain in the stomach or chest area. However, the two are actually different, both in terms of causes, symptoms, and how to treat them. Understanding the difference between GERD and ulcers is very important so that the treatment given is right on target.
GERD is a chronic condition in which stomach acid flows up into the esophagus (acid reflux) due to weakness or damage to the valve (sphincter) that separates the stomach and esophagus. This valve is supposed to prevent stomach acid from rising, but in people with GERD, this valve does not function optimally so that stomach acid often rises and irritates the esophagus. The main symptoms of GERD include a burning sensation in the chest (heartburn), a sour or bitter taste in the mouth, chronic cough, hoarseness, difficulty swallowing, and a lump in the throat. GERD is usually chronic and requires long-term treatment to prevent complications such as damage to the esophagus or the risk of esophageal cancer.
Meanwhile, ulcers are a general term often used to describe stomach disorders, such as gastritis (inflammation of the stomach wall), gastric ulcers (sores on the stomach wall) or dyspepsia (digestive disorders). Ulcers are usually caused by irritation of the stomach wall due to excess stomach acid production, Helicobacter pylori bacterial infection, consumption of certain drugs such as NSAIDs or irregular eating patterns. Ulcer symptoms include pain in the pit of the stomach, bloating, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, and frequent belching. Unlike GERD which involves the esophagus, ulcers focus more on problems in the stomach itself. This condition can be acute or chronic depending on the cause and management.
The basic difference between GERD and ulcers lies in the location of the problem. GERD involves the esophagus due to rising stomach acid, while ulcers focus on disorders in the stomach, such as inflammation or wounds. Symptoms of GERD are more often a burning sensation in the chest (heartburn) and a sour taste in the mouth, while ulcers usually cause pain in the pit of the stomach, bloating and nausea. In terms of cause, GERD is caused by weakness in the stomach valve, while ulcers are often triggered by unhealthy diets, bacterial infections or the use of certain drugs. Complications of GERD can involve damage to the esophagus, while ulcers can cause stomach ulcers or bleeding.
Although different, GERD and ulcers have some similarities. Both are often triggered by unhealthy eating habits, such as consuming spicy, sour or oily foods, as well as smoking and alcohol consumption. Initial treatment for both also involves lifestyle changes, such as eating a regular diet, avoiding trigger foods and maintaining an ideal body weight. Treatment with antacids, proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) or H2 receptor blockers is also often used to reduce stomach acid production.
To determine whether someone has GERD or ulcers, a medical examination is needed. The doctor will usually ask about the patient's history of symptoms, diet and lifestyle. Additional examinations such as endoscopy may be needed to see the condition of the esophagus and stomach. In GERD, endoscopy usually shows irritation or inflammation in the esophagus, while in ulcers, inflammation or ulcers are often found in the stomach.
That is the difference between GERD and MAAG from the symptoms and how to treat them. If you experience some of the symptoms as listed above and have lasted a long time, immediately visit a doctor at a trusted hospital. Never underestimate the symptoms that appear.
Article written by dr. Rabbinu Rangga Pribadi, Sp.PD, KGEH (Internal Medicine Specialist - Consultant Gastro Entero Hepatology EMC Pulomas Hospital).