GERD and IBS Nexus Letters

What is GERD? (GERD stands for gastroesophageal reflux disease)

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is typically a chronic digestive disorder that causes stomach acid or acidic stomach contents to come back up into the esophagus.  This is known as acid reflux. The reflux occurs as a result of a malfunction of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). The LES is a circular tube of muscle located between the esophagus and stomach.  When you swallow, the LES relaxes and makes an opening so food and liquid can enter the stomach. Once the contents are in the stomach, the LES contracts and the opening closes. When the LES fails to close all the way, stomach acid and content can creep back up into the esophagus.

Classic symptoms of GERD are heartburn (pyrosis) and regurgitation. 

IBS stands for irritable bowel syndrome. The usual manifestations of IBS are cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, gas, and diarrhea or constipation, or both. 

Research abound about the connection between irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)  gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and  psychological conditions including PTSD, Major Depressive Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, and Insomnia Disorder. Psychiatric conditions can aggravate the course of gastrointestinal conditions. Our psychiatrist has helped hundreds of veterans with nexus letters describing GERD secondary to PTSD and/or other mental health conditions. 

GERD can also be caused and aggravated by certain medications. Our pain management physician provides detailed GERD nexus letters that describe the pharmacological connection between your medications and GERD. 

Do you need a nexus letter for GERD secondary to PTSD? or GERD secondary to medications?