Question 1

What is Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)?

Accepted Answer

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) is a chronic digestive condition where stomach acid frequently flows back into the esophagus, causing heartburn and chest discomfort. It is caused by a weakened lower esophageal sphincter that fails to prevent stomach acid from rising, often worsened by excess acid production from elevated gastrin or histamine levels. The Gastrin blood test is the most important test for GERD because it identifies whether excessive gastrin hormone is stimulating overproduction of stomach acid.

Question 2

What causes GERD?

Accepted Answer

GERD is caused by a weakened or malfunctioning lower esophageal sphincter (LES), the muscle valve that separates your esophagus from your stomach. When this valve does not close properly, stomach acid and digestive contents can flow backward into the esophagus, causing the burning sensation known as heartburn. Several factors can worsen this condition, including excess production of stomach acid triggered by elevated levels of gastrin or histamine hormones, obesity that puts pressure on the stomach, hiatal hernias, pregnancy, smoking, and certain foods like fatty meals, chocolate, caffeine, and alcohol.

Question 3

What is the best test for GERD?

Accepted Answer

The Gastrin blood test is the most important test for GERD because it measures the hormone responsible for stimulating stomach acid production. Elevated gastrin levels can cause your stomach to produce excessive amounts of acid, making your reflux symptoms worse and harder to control with standard treatments. The Histamine Plasma test is also essential because histamine stimulates acid-producing cells in your stomach lining, and high levels can lead to more frequent and severe acid reflux episodes. While GERD is primarily diagnosed through your symptoms and clinical examination, these blood tests help identify underlying biochemical reasons why you might be producing too much stomach acid, allowing your doctor to develop a more targeted treatment plan.

Question 4

When should I get tested for GERD?

Accepted Answer

You should get tested if you experience heartburn or acid reflux more than twice a week, have difficulty swallowing, feel like food is stuck in your throat, or wake up with a sour taste in your mouth. Get tested immediately if standard GERD medications are not providing relief, you are experiencing unexplained weight loss, you have chest pain that is not related to your heart, or you notice blood in your vomit or stool. Testing is especially important if your symptoms have been ongoing for several weeks or are getting worse, as chronic acid exposure can damage your esophagus and lead to more serious complications.

Question 5

What are the symptoms of GERD?

Accepted Answer

The most common symptom of GERD is heartburn, a burning sensation in your chest that often occurs after eating and may worsen when lying down or bending over. You might also experience regurgitation, where acid or food comes back up into your throat or mouth, leaving a sour or bitter taste. Other symptoms include difficulty swallowing, feeling like there is a lump in your throat, chronic cough, hoarseness or sore throat, chest pain that can mimic a heart attack, disrupted sleep due to nighttime reflux, and worsening of asthma symptoms if you have asthma.

Question 6

Who is at risk for GERD?

Accepted Answer

Anyone can develop GERD, but certain factors increase your risk significantly. People who are overweight or obese have higher risk because excess weight puts pressure on the abdomen and stomach. Pregnant women often experience GERD due to hormonal changes and pressure from the growing baby. Smokers are at greater risk because smoking weakens the lower esophageal sphincter. People who eat large meals or lie down right after eating, those who consume trigger foods like fatty or fried foods, chocolate, caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods, and individuals with hiatal hernias are also more susceptible. Additionally, certain medications including aspirin, ibuprofen, some blood pressure medications, and sedatives can worsen GERD.

Question 7

What happens if GERD is left untreated?

Accepted Answer

Untreated GERD can lead to serious complications that affect your health and quality of life. Chronic acid exposure can cause esophagitis, an inflammation of the esophagus that makes swallowing painful and difficult. Over time, this can develop into esophageal stricture, where scar tissue narrows the esophagus and makes it hard to swallow food. One of the most serious complications is Barrett's esophagus, a condition where the esophageal lining changes and becomes precancerous, significantly increasing your risk of esophageal cancer. Other complications include chronic cough, laryngitis, dental erosion from acid, worsening asthma, and sleep disturbances that affect your overall health and daily functioning.

Question 8

Can GERD be diagnosed with a blood test?

Accepted Answer

GERD itself is primarily diagnosed based on your symptoms and clinical examination rather than blood tests. However, blood tests play an important supporting role in understanding why you have GERD and why it might not be responding to treatment. The Gastrin test measures levels of the hormone that triggers stomach acid production, while the Histamine Plasma test checks for elevated histamine that can also increase acid production. These tests help identify underlying biochemical factors contributing to excessive acid production, allowing your healthcare provider to create a more comprehensive and effective treatment plan that addresses the root causes of your symptoms.

Question 9

How is GERD treated?

Accepted Answer

GERD treatment typically starts with lifestyle modifications and over-the-counter medications. Your doctor may recommend losing weight if needed, avoiding trigger foods, eating smaller meals, not lying down for three hours after eating, and elevating the head of your bed. Medications include antacids for quick relief, H2 receptor blockers to reduce acid production, and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) to block acid production more effectively. If blood tests show elevated gastrin or histamine levels, your doctor might prescribe medications specifically targeting these hormones. In severe cases that do not respond to medication, surgical options like fundoplication may be recommended to strengthen the lower esophageal sphincter and prevent acid reflux.

Question 10

How can I prevent GERD?

Accepted Answer

You can prevent GERD or reduce its frequency by making several lifestyle changes. Maintain a healthy weight, as excess pounds put pressure on your stomach and increase reflux risk. Avoid foods and drinks that trigger your symptoms, such as fatty or fried foods, chocolate, caffeine, alcohol, citrus fruits, tomatoes, and spicy foods. Eat smaller, more frequent meals instead of large meals, and finish eating at least three hours before bedtime. Do not lie down immediately after eating, and elevate the head of your bed by 6 to 8 inches. Quit smoking, as it weakens the lower esophageal sphincter. Wear loose-fitting clothing around your abdomen, and manage stress through relaxation techniques, as stress can worsen GERD symptoms.

Question 11

What natural remedies help with GERD?

Accepted Answer

Several natural remedies can help manage GERD symptoms alongside medical treatment. Chewing gum after meals stimulates saliva production, which neutralizes acid and helps clear it from the esophagus. Drinking a small amount of aloe vera juice may soothe the esophagus, though you should check with your doctor first. Ginger tea can help reduce inflammation and soothe the digestive tract. Eating smaller, more frequent meals prevents your stomach from becoming too full and reduces pressure on the lower esophageal sphincter. Sleeping on your left side can help keep stomach acid where it belongs. Some people find relief by drinking chamomile tea or taking slippery elm supplements, but always consult your healthcare provider before trying supplements, especially if you are taking other medications.

Question 12

How’s this work?

Accepted Answer

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short:
            
                In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
                If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
                Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
                If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
                When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
                Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
                You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!
                If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Question 13

How do I know which test to get?

Accepted Answer

In the test options, find the test you want.
            If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option.
            Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

Question 14

When will my lab results be available?

Accepted Answer

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know.
            After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop!
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Question 15

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you.
            Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at
            support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update.
            Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you.
            There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out.
            Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Question 16

Do you accept health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Only HSA & FSA is accepted.
            Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts.
            This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Question 17

Can I cancel my order?

Accepted Answer

Yes.
            We get it – sometimes your needs change.
            As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order.
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.
            You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

Question 18

How can I find a lab location near me?

Accepted Answer

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached!
            You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp).
            Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

GERD Blood Test

What is Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)?

What causes GERD?

What is the best test for GERD?

When should I get tested for GERD?

References

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