Do you have discomfort at your tummy? Have you heard of GERD?
GERD is the acronym for Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease. It is a common condition which occurs when acid from the stomach flows backwards into the esophagus. Since our esophagus is not designed to be resistant against this acid, this causes injury to the wall of the esophagus.
Why does this happen?
The esophagus is separated from the stomach by a specially designed muscle called a sphincter. It acts as a gate keeper, preventing acid and food already in the stomach from escaping back into the esophagus. In GERD, this sphincter fails to function properly and allows acid to flow through it and into the esophagus.
Could this be what I have?
While GERD tends to cause disease mostly in adults, those within the younger age group can also suffer from it.
Symptoms that suggest that you are suffering from this include:
- Heartburn : A burning sensation within the stomach and lower chest typically occurring after meals.
- Acid Reflux: A sour/bitter taste in the mouth or back of the throat.
- You feel a constant need to burp.
- You frequently have a sore throat.
How can I confirm I have GERD?
Your doctor will take a full medical history from you and a complete physical examination . After which he may suggest that you have an endoscopic procedure done. This is a flexible tube that passes through your mouth all the way to your stomach and allows him to visualize if there is any inflammation or ulceration. He may also take biopsies of some of the tissue if he feels it is necessary to do so.
Are there any medications that would help?
Your doctor may prescribe medication to help suppress acid pumps in the stomach from releasing acid. This in turn reduces the amount of acid that courses back to the esophagus and thus reduces the risk of inflammation and erosion.
This drugs include proton pump inhibitors, H2 receptor antagonists and antacids.
- Smaller, more frequent meals
- Avoid spicy food
- Avoid fatty food
- Stop smoking as nicotine weakens the sphincter
- Avoid alcohol
- Avoid eating 3–4 hours before sleeping
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Sleep with the head of your bed raised