What is GE Reflux?

Gastroesophageal reflux (GE reflux) occurs when the contents of the stomach leak backwards into the esophagus (the tube the connects the mouth to the stomach)
The leakage can irritate the esophagus and cause heartburn or other symptoms

Common symptoms of GE reflux

Feeling that food is stuck behind the breastbone
Heartburn or a burning pain in the chest (under the breastbone)
- Increased by bending, stooping, lying down, or eating
- More likely or worse at night
Nausea after eating
Less common symptoms:
- Bringing food back up (regurgitation)
- Cough or wheezing
- Difficulty swallowing
- Hiccups
- Hoarseness or change in voice
- Sore throat

In many cases, we don’t know why individuals with NBIA develop GE reflux
It could be caused by dystonia (muscle spasms) in the head and neck
- Muscle spasms may prevent the stomach sphincter (opening) from closing properly or cause it to open and close, which results in stomach contents leaking out
It often results from the sedentary lifestyle caused by NBIA symptoms
GE reflux can also be caused, or made worse, by medications like the dopaminergic drugs used to treat parkinsonism

Over-the-counter antacids (such as Tums)
- Taken after meals and at bedtime
- Their effectiveness does not last long
- Has side effects including diarrhea or constipation
Other medications
- They work more slowly than antacids but give longer relief
- Proton pump inhibitors (like Prevacid and Nexium)
- Decrease the amount of acid produced in the stomach
- H2 blockers (like Zantac)
- Lower the amount of acid released into the stomach