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Top 3 Veteran Health Issues That Cause GERD

Top 3 Veteran Health Issues That Cause GERD

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a common health issue among veterans, often occurring as a secondary condition related to other service-connected disabilities. While GERD itself can be uncomfortable and disruptive, understanding the underlying causes can help veterans seek appropriate medical care and potential disability benefits. Leah Bucholz will explore the top three veteran health issues that cause GERD: mental health conditions, chronic pain, and obesity.

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1. Mental Health Conditions (PTSD, Anxiety, and Depression)

Many veterans struggle with mental health conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression. Research has shown a strong correlation between these conditions and GERD. The heightened stress and anxiety associated with these disorders can lead to an overproduction of stomach acid, increasing the likelihood of acid reflux.

How Mental Health Conditions Contribute to GERD

  • Increased Stomach Acid Production: PTSD and anxiety trigger the body’s stress response, leading to excessive acid production, which can irritate the esophagus.
  • Disrupted Digestive Processes: Stress can interfere with normal digestion, slowing down stomach emptying and increasing the risk of acid reflux.
  • Unhealthy Coping Mechanisms: Veterans with PTSD or anxiety may engage in behaviors that exacerbate GERD, such as smoking and alcohol consumption. Smoking weakens the lower esophageal sphincter, while alcohol increases stomach acid production and relaxes the sphincter, making reflux more likely.
  • Poor Sleep Patterns: Sleep disturbances are common in veterans with PTSD, and lying down at night can worsen GERD symptoms due to acid backflow.

2. Chronic Pain and Medication Use

Chronic pain is another major factor contributing to GERD among veterans. Many veterans experience ongoing pain due to service-related injuries, including back pain, knee pain, and musculoskeletal conditions. The medications used to manage this pain, particularly non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and opioids, can lead to GERD.

How Chronic Pain and Medications Cause GERD

  • NSAID Use: NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen and aspirin, are commonly prescribed for pain management but can irritate the stomach lining, reducing its ability to protect itself from acid.
  • Opioid Use: Long-term opioid use slows down the digestive process, leading to delayed gastric emptying and increased risk of acid reflux.
  • Stress and Pain Connection: Chronic pain activates the body’s stress response, which, as previously mentioned, can increase stomach acid production and worsen GERD symptoms.

3. Obesity and Weight Gain

Obesity is a well-documented risk factor for GERD. Many veterans struggle with weight gain due to service-related physical limitations, chronic pain, and medication side effects. Additionally, mental health conditions may contribute to unhealthy eating habits and reduced physical activity, further exacerbating weight gain.

How Obesity Causes GERD

  • Increased Abdominal Pressure: Excess weight around the abdomen puts pressure on the stomach, pushing acid up into the esophagus.
  • Weakened Lower Esophageal Sphincter: Obesity can cause the muscle responsible for preventing acid reflux to weaken, making reflux more frequent and severe.
  • Compounding Health Conditions: Obesity is often associated with conditions like sleep apnea and hypertension, both of which can make GERD symptoms worse.

Top 3 Veteran Health Issues That Cause GERD – Conclusion

GERD is a significant health concern for many veterans, often developing as a secondary condition related to mental health disorders, chronic pain, and obesity. Understanding these contributing factors can help veterans seek appropriate medical treatment and, if applicable, apply for VA disability benefits. If you believe your GERD is related to a service-connected condition, discussing these factors with your healthcare provider may help support your claim for benefits.

Also read: VA Sleep Apnea Rating Changes in 2025

At Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting, a veteran-owned company, we specialize in Independent Medical Opinions (IMOs) known as Nexus letters.

Our purpose is to empower YOU, the veteran, to take charge of your medical evidence and provide you with valuable educational tools and research to guide you on your journey.

Understanding the unique challenges veterans face, our commitment lies in delivering exceptional service and support.

Leveraging an extensive network of licensed independent medical professionals, all well-versed in the medical professional aspects of the VA claims process, we review the necessary medical evidence to incorporate in our reports related to your VA Disability Claim.

Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting is not a law firm, accredited claims agent, or affiliated with the Veterans Administration or Veterans Services Organizations. However, we are happy to discuss your case with your accredited VA legal professional.

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Danielle McClaskey

Client Relations Specialist U.S. Navy Veteran

In her active-duty service in the United States Navy, Danielle undertook a variety of responsibilities, ranging from essential administrative duties to providing crucial medical care. Her multifaceted contributions played a pivotal role in enhancing her fellow service members’ operational effectiveness and well-being.

As a disabled veteran, she developed a profound understanding of the unique challenges faced by her fellow service members. Now, in her civilian role, Danielle is a valued member of the Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting team, where she continues to leverage her extensive background and educational achievements to provide exceptional support to veterans.

Leticia

LETICIA

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT

Leticia has been in the medical field for nearly 14 years. She has always had a passion for medicine and caring for her community. Leticia has spent the last 4 years caring for veterans and first responders with alcohol and substance abuse in a medical rehabilitation setting whilst continuing her education working towards a degree in software development.

Someday she hopes to develop medical software that further enhances the patient’s experience in medical care. Leticia has a deep respect and love for those who have served as she comes from a family of law enforcement and military veterans.

Alan Bucholz

ALAN BUCHOLZ, PA-C:

U.S ARMY VETERAN, CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

Alan enlisted in the US Army as a combat medic, where he deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Influenced by his time as a combat medic, he attended the Interservice Physician Assistant program while on
active duty, was commissioned as an officer, and subsequently deployed to Afghanistan.  

Alan’s military and medical background inspired him to form Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting with his
wife, Leah Bucholz, a Physician Assistant and Army Combat Veteran.  He has devoted himself to using his
knowledge gained in the military as a medical professional to serve the Veteran community.

Alan Bucholz

ALAN BUCHOLZ, PA-C:

U.S ARMY VETERAN, CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

Alan enlisted in the US Army as a combat medic, where he deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Influenced by his time as a combat medic, he attended the Interservice Physician Assistant program while on
active duty, was commissioned as an officer, and subsequently deployed to Afghanistan.  

Alan’s military and medical background inspired him to form Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting with his
wife, Leah Bucholz, a Physician Assistant and Army Combat Veteran.  He has devoted himself to using his
knowledge gained in the military as a medical professional to serve the Veteran community.

Julie Pereira

JULIE PEREIRA:

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT

During her Active-Duty time in the US Navy as a Hospital Corpsman, Julie provided medical administration
and patient care services in the field, the hospital, and base medical office settings.  This military medical and
administrative background has given Julie the hands-on experience and extensive knowledge necessary to
provide unparalleled service to her fellow Veterans through the Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting team.

Julie’s educational achievements include a Bachelor of Arts with a minor in Human Services and a pre-nursing associate in arts and science.

Julie has been inspired by her firsthand knowledge of navigating the VA Benefits process. She has dedicated
most of her adult life to serving Veterans through her knowledge derived from her military and civilian medical
education and training.

Jennifer Januta

JENNIFER JANUTA

U.S ARMY VETERAN, CHIEF OPERATIONS OFFICER

During her Active-Duty service in the Army, Jennifer supported various research efforts centered on combat casualty care and Soldier performance. Her military background gave her unique insights into veterans’ distinct challenges, ultimately inspiring her to join the Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting team.

Jennifer’s educational achievements include a master’s in molecular biology from George Washington University and a master’s in data science from Texas Tech University. Jennifer wholeheartedly dedicates herself to utilizing her knowledge and expertise gained from 15 years of healthcare experience to impact the well-being of those who have served positively.

Alan Bucholz

ALAN BUCHOLZ, PA-C:

U.S ARMY VETERAN, CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

Alan enlisted in the US Army as a combat medic, where he deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Influenced by his time as a combat medic, he attended the Interservice Physician Assistant program while on
active duty, was commissioned as an officer, and subsequently deployed to Afghanistan.  

Alan’s military and medical background inspired him to form Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting with his
wife, Leah Bucholz, a Physician Assistant and Army Combat Veteran.  He has devoted himself to using his
knowledge gained in the military as a medical professional to serve the Veteran community.

Leah - Meet the Team

LEAH BUCHOLZ, PA-C

U.S ARMY VETERAN, MEDICAL EXPERT & FORMER C & P EXAMINER

Meet Leah, the founder, and leader of our organization. ​​A combat veteran herself, she understands the unique challenges veterans face, making her mission about much more than running a successful business. It’s about the opportunity to provide a legacy of exceptional service for our heroes.​

​“It is essential to remember that there is no greater honor than caring for service members on the battlefield. Continuing to care for Veterans after separation is an opportunity that I have been afforded to extend that care in this new battlefield related to service-incurred disabilities.”

Her inspiration comes from years of military experience working alongside her fellow servicemembers, particularly key leaders who have influenced her journey, applying their wisdom to her path. She values her team deeply, most of whom are also disabled combat veterans, each member a trusted individual sharing her vision.

 “Driven by passion and purpose, I aim to create a sustainable change that empowers veterans and future generations.”

Leah’s journey hasn’t been without challenges. From overcoming and living with her service-related disabilities to navigating work-life balance, she’s learned to face each hurdle head-on with resilience.  Like many of her veteran brothers and sisters, her early background consisted of limited resources and opportunities. Her military service has helped shape her into a steadfast leader, offering relatable inspiration to others.

Join us in celebrating Leah, a compassionate leader, and resilient veteran, driving our mission to serve those who served our nation.