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Heartburn, Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) and Chronic SCI

Updated on August 29, 2024

Some research indicates that GERD may be considerably more common among people with spinal cord injury (SCI) than in the general population, although there is conflicting evidence. However, the research does suggest that common complications of SCI are known risk factors for GERD, and that GERD is poorly diagnosed and often found at an advanced stage among people with SCI. Impaired sensation may also prevent individuals with higher injury levels from detecting symptoms of GERD. It’s useful to understand GERD, especially its symptoms and risk factors specific to SCI so you know how to respond if you need to.

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