GERD and gallbladder disease: Is there a link?
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and gallbladder disease (GBD) are two different digestive disorders that are common but cause severe health problems and impact the quality of life. Experts say that, despite a few shared symptoms and risk factors, there is no clear evidence that both conditions are linked. However, understanding both conditions can help determine whether they are connected. Moreover, knowing the conditions can help diagnose and manage their symptoms more effectively.
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
GERD is a chronic health problem where the contents of the stomach (stomach acid or bile) travel back into the food pipe (esophagus), causing irritation or a burning sensation. Often, this condition is also referred to as acid reflux or heartburn.
The symptoms of GERD include a burning sensation in the chest (heartburn), swallowing problems (dysphagia), sour liquid taste in the throat, regurgitation, pain in the upper stomach or chest, inflamed larynx (laryngitis), and a feeling of having a lump in the throat.
The common causes of GERD include a weak lower esophageal sphincter (LES), hiatal hernia, scleroderma, being obese, having specific foods like spicy foods, citrus, etc., smoking, and drinking alcohol.
Gallbladder disease (GBD)
The gallbladder is located below the liver along the digestive tract. The purpose of this organ is to store bile, the liquid released into the stomach occasionally, to aid digestion. This liquid is similar to stomach acid, but the stomach is acidic in nature, whereas bile is alkaline. Several conditions affect the gallbladder.
Symptoms like upper right abdomen pain, nausea, vomiting, bloating, digestion problems, and jaundice indicate having problems with the gallbladder.
The common causes of GBD include gallstones, gallbladder inflammation (cholecystitis), biliary dyskinesia, infection, and chronic acalculous gallbladder disease.
Can GERD cause gallbladder problems?
A study was conducted back in 2015 among 604 people with GERD. According to the study, around 13% of them had the problem of gallstones, which is generally high compared to the general population (approximately . 6% of males and 9% of females). This may indicate that these two conditions are connected.
However, gallstones are a common gallbladder problem, and obesity is making them more prevalent. Obese people are also at high risk of GERD because extra weight puts stress on the esophagus. Therefore, obesity is probably a risk factor for both conditions.
Medication is another reason for the development of gallstones in people with GERD. In a small study back in 2006, over 19 people supported this statement, as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) (GERD medications) might diminish functions of the gallbladder and increase the risk of gallstone formation. However, other recent studies couldn’t find solid proof to conclude that PPIs impact the functions of the gallbladder.
Can gallbladder problems result in GERD?
There is no clinical evidence to support the statement that gallbladder disease leads to GERD. However, according to a study in 2021, removing the gallbladder might increase the risk of bile reflux. Since, the gallbladder is the storing unit of bile, without it, bile may be released directly into the stomach. This can produce symptoms similar to those of GERD.
If you believe you have GERD or gallbladder disorder, consult a specialist as soon as possible for a firm diagnosis. Certain symptoms, like severe abdominal pain or blood vomiting, require immediate medical attention.
Diagnosing GERD typically involves certain tests, which include endoscopy, monitoring the pH level, and esophageal manometry.
Diagnosing gallbladder disease includes ultrasounds, HIDA scans, and blood tests.
Treatment for GERD
For patients with GERD, doctors initially suggest changing their lifestyle, which includes losing weight, modifying their diet, avoiding foods that trigger GERD, and adjusting sleeping positions like elevating the head.
To manage symptoms, patients are suggested to take medications like antacids, H2 receptor blockers, PPIs, and prokinetics.
In severe cases, fundoplication or LINX device implantation surgery is suggested.
Treatment gallbladder disease
For patients with gallbladder disease, doctors initially suggest dietary changes like a low-fat diet.
To manage symptoms, patients are suggested to take medications like bile acid pills to dissolve certain types of gallstones.
In recurrent or severe cases, cholecystectomy (gallbladder removal) surgery is recommended.
Gallbladder disease and GERD might be connected, but there is not enough research to prove that they are linked. They are two different conditions that may have similar symptoms but different treatment options. For additional information or treatment, consult Dr. Venugopal Pareek, one of the best laparoscopic and weight loss surgeons in Hyderabad. He has more than 18 years of experience in treating various gallbladder diseases and GERD with a high success rate. For appointments, call +91 91777 77715 or visit our website for more information.
