GERD
A chronic acid reflux condition that is common with excess weight and often improves significantly with weight loss.
Plain English
Patient-Friendly Explanation
GERD stands for gastroesophageal reflux disease — a chronic condition where stomach acid frequently flows back into the tube connecting your mouth and stomach (oesophagus), causing heartburn, regurgitation, and discomfort. Carrying excess weight, especially around the abdomen, puts pressure on the stomach and makes GERD much more likely. Losing even 5–10% of your body weight can significantly reduce or even eliminate GERD symptoms.
Medical
Clinical Definition
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is defined by the Montreal classification as a condition that develops when reflux of gastric contents causes troublesome symptoms (heartburn, regurgitation) and/or complications (oesophagitis, stricture, Barrett oesophagus) occurring at least twice weekly. The pathophysiology in obesity is multifactorial: increased intra-abdominal pressure raises the gastroesophageal pressure gradient, promoting reflux; obesity is also associated with a higher prevalence of hiatal hernia and transient lower oesophageal sphincter relaxations. Weight loss — both conservative and post-bariatric — is a first-line intervention with robust evidence for symptom improvement.
Key Insight
Why It Matters
GERD is one of the most common complications of obesity, and many patients do not realise their heartburn is directly linked to their weight. Dr Joseph Wang addresses GERD as part of a comprehensive weight management assessment at Accord Medical, because successful weight loss often resolves reflux without the need for long-term acid-suppressing medication.
Sources
Reviewed against standard medical references.
Medically reviewed by
Family Physician & Registered Acupuncturist, Accord Medical Clinic. MBBS (NUS), Graduate Diploma in Family Medicine (NUS), Graduate Diploma in Acupuncture (Singapore College of TCM).
Last reviewed: August 2026
This page is general health education, not medical advice. Whether any treatment is appropriate for you is a decision made in consultation after assessment.