Even though 15 million Americans experience heartburn every day, very few of these people actually consult their physicians. Consequently, many people do not know enough about heartburn to realize their problem may be something more serious, such as GERD. Through this national education campaign, ACG hopes to dispel some of the confusion about heartburn problems and GERD, including consumer puzzlement over the dozens of over-the-counter medications available to alleviate heartburn. ACG has set up a toll-free number, 1-800-HRT-BURN, that provides callers with information on heartburn and a brochure on GERD that explains why unresolved heartburn symptoms should not be ignored. In addition to the toll-free number, ACG is placing ads in major newspapers and magazines, such as Parade, Newsweek and Reader's Digest, and on cable television.

GERD occurs when the muscle valve at the lower end of the esophagus malfunctions, allowing a backward flow of acid from the stomach to move up into the esophagus. Symptoms may include a feeling that food is being trapped behind the breast bone, vomiting blood, black bowel movements, a sensation of acid reflux into the windpipe causing shortness of breath, coughing, or hoarseness. Without effective treatment, GERD can cause serious complications such as severe chest pain, esophageal stricture (a narrowing or obstruction of the esophagus), bleeding, asthma-like symptoms, or Barrett's esophagus (a pre-cancerous condition of the esophagus).

"With so many choices of over-the-counter medicines available, patients who suffer from recurrent heartburn may be self-medicating for something that is actually more serious. We want to encourage patients to see their doctor and ask the right questions -- so that they get the relief they need," said Dr. Joel Richter, past president of ACG.

Many infrequent gastrointestinal problems are relatively common and can be treated by lifestyle modification and proper use of over-the-counter drugs. However, if over-the-counter or prescription medications do not alleviate persistent heartburn symptoms, the problem may be GERD. People who think they may need advanced treatment should visit their doctor or a gastroenterologist, a specialist in gastrointestinal disorders. There are a variety of ways to treat GERD, and some of these involve taking medications which are available only by prescription.

Dr. Richter added, "Many of my patients suffer heartburn for months and even years before they come to see me. I think that there is a great deal of confusion about heartburn, and as doctors, we need to cut through the clutter and give our patients answers."

The American College of Gastroenterology was formed in 1932 to advance the scientific study and medical treatment of disorders of the gastrointestinal tract. The College promotes the highest standard in medical education and is guided by its commitment to meet the needs of clinical gastroenterology practitioners.

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