Understanding GERD: Causes, Symptoms, and Prevention
Gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a very common condition seen in 9 out of 10 people. It is commonly known as “Acidity” by people. It is the acid in the stomach which regurgitates in the esophagus (food pipe) because of various causes, which leads to burning in the chest (Heartburn) or stomach pain or discomfort in stomach. Occasionally the acid coming up causes changes in the cells of the esophagus. This is called as Barrett’s Esophagus. GERD usually affects adults, but the increase in fast food centers and change in lifestyle of children has made them the victim of this disease. Pregnant women are especially prone to develop GERD.
Causes of GERD
No one knows the exact cause of GERD. The following are several contributing factors that weaken or relax the lower esophageal sphincter, making reflux worse:
- Lifestyle – Use of alcohol or cigarettes, obesity, poor posture (slouching)
- Medications – Calcium channel blockers, theophylline , nitrates, antihistamines and pain killers
- Diet – Fatty and fried foods, chocolate, garlic and onions, drinks with caffeine, acid foods such as citrus fruits and tomatoes, spicy foods, mint flavourings
- Eating habits – Eating large meals, eating just before bedtime
- Other medical conditions – Hiatus hernia, pregnancy, diabetes, rapid weight gain
Symptoms of GERD
- Heartburn (chest burning) • Oral regurgitation (A feeling of burping acid into the mouth)
- Epigastric pain
- A sore, raw throat or hoarse voice
- A frequent sour taste of acid, especially when lying down
- Trouble swallowing
- A feeling that food is stuck in the throat
- A feeling of choking that may wake someone up
- A dry cough especially at night. GERD is a common cause of unexplained cough.
- Bad breath
- Tooth sensitivity
- Chest pain & discomfort mimics Angina pain. Seek medical attention immediately to rule out heart condition.
Prevention is better than cure what not to do:
- Do not lie down immediately after eating. Eat your meal at least 1 hour prior to bed.
- Do not eat large meal at a time. Avoid fasting for prolonged hours.
- Stop smoking. It weakens the lower esophageal sphincter increasing the reflux.
- Do not gain weight. Increased weight increases the pressure inside the abdomen and causes reflux.
- Dietary changes: Avoid spices, pain killers, aerated drinks, soda, Eno, chocolates, fermented food. Explain the above artile
Treatment Options for GERD
Treatment for GERD typically involves a combination of lifestyle changes, medications, and, in severe cases, surgery. Over-the-counter antacids, H2 blockers, and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) can help reduce acid production and alleviate symptoms. Lifestyle modifications like weight loss, avoiding trigger foods (e.g., spicy or fatty foods), and elevating the head during sleep are also effective. For persistent cases, surgical procedures like fundoplication may be recommended to strengthen the LES and prevent reflux.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the common symptoms of GERD?
Common symptoms include heartburn (burning sensation in the chest), regurgitation of acid or food, difficulty swallowing, sore throat, hoarse voice, chronic cough, and a feeling of a lump in the throat. In some cases, GERD can mimic chest pain similar to heart-related issues.
How is GERD diagnosed?
GERD is typically diagnosed based on symptoms and medical history. Diagnostic tests may include an endoscopy to examine the esophagus, pH monitoring to measure acid levels, or a barium swallow test to assess the digestive tract.
What foods should I avoid if I have GERD?
Avoid trigger foods like spicy, fatty, or fried foods, citrus fruits, tomatoes, chocolate, caffeine, alcohol, and carbonated drinks. Eating smaller, more frequent meals and avoiding late-night snacks can also help.
Can GERD lead to complications?
Yes, untreated GERD can lead to complications such as esophagitis (inflammation of the esophagus), Barrett’s esophagus (precancerous changes in the lining), and strictures (narrowing of the esophagus). It’s important to manage symptoms early to prevent long-term damage.
Final Assessment
At Serene Wellness – Homoeopathy & Child Counselling Clinic in Borivali, we understand the impact of Gastro-esophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) on your daily life and overall well-being. GERD is not just a physical condition; it can also affect your mental health, especially when symptoms like chronic discomfort, sleepless nights, or anxiety about eating arise. Our holistic approach combines homoeopathy counselling to address GERD and its underlying causes effectively.
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