This is what I earnt about GERD or gastroesophageal reflux disease or simply that feeling of burning chest and bloated tummy. Gastroesophageal reflux disease is the frequent back-up of stomach digestive juices from the stomach into the esophagus. The esophagus is the duct linking the mouth to the stomach. GERD occurs when the lower portion of the esophageal sphincter muscle is weakened or relaxes inappropriately, allowing the backflow of digestive juices.
If left untreated, GERD can lead to more serious complications such as esophagitis, stricture and Barrett's Esophagus.
Esophagitis is the irritation and inflammation the esophagus caused by the persistent presence of stomach acid. It can lead to esophageal bleeding and ulcers.
A stricture is the abnormal narrowing of the esophagus.
Barrett's Esophagus is a change in the esophagus cell lining that can predispose a person to cancer.
The Symptoms of GERD
The symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease are quite obvious. One would get the feeling of burning pain between the breastbone or chest pains. This burning pain is often worsened when one bend over or lie down. Other symptoms include a sore throat, hoarseness or a lumpy feeling in the throat.
Treatments for GERD
Antiacids are normally used for mild GERD. It neutralizes the acid and provides symptomatic relief. However, it does not treat the underlying causes and may have the side effects of diarrhea or constipation. To treat GERD properly, it is best to consult a doctor. He or she may prescribe medication such as H2-antagonists, proton pump inhibitors, and prokinetics.
H2-antagonists (H2 blockers) and proton pump inhibitors (PPI) decrease acid production. Prokinetics helps to strengthen the lower esophageal sphincter. However, the side effects include fatigue, depression, and anxiety.
In severe cases where medication is not effective, surgery may be recommended. Funcoplication is a surgical procedure that reduces the acid regurgitation.
People with GERD should avoid spicy foods, coffee, alcohol, chocolate, citrus fruits and juices, carbonated beverages, fried food, fatty food, and tomatoes.
To prevent the symptoms, eat smaller meal portion. Avoid lying down within 2 - 3 hours of a meal. Elevate the head when lying down.
If left untreated, GERD can lead to more serious complications such as esophagitis, stricture and Barrett's Esophagus.
Esophagitis is the irritation and inflammation the esophagus caused by the persistent presence of stomach acid. It can lead to esophageal bleeding and ulcers.
A stricture is the abnormal narrowing of the esophagus.
Barrett's Esophagus is a change in the esophagus cell lining that can predispose a person to cancer.
The Symptoms of GERD
The symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease are quite obvious. One would get the feeling of burning pain between the breastbone or chest pains. This burning pain is often worsened when one bend over or lie down. Other symptoms include a sore throat, hoarseness or a lumpy feeling in the throat.
Treatments for GERD
Antiacids are normally used for mild GERD. It neutralizes the acid and provides symptomatic relief. However, it does not treat the underlying causes and may have the side effects of diarrhea or constipation. To treat GERD properly, it is best to consult a doctor. He or she may prescribe medication such as H2-antagonists, proton pump inhibitors, and prokinetics.
H2-antagonists (H2 blockers) and proton pump inhibitors (PPI) decrease acid production. Prokinetics helps to strengthen the lower esophageal sphincter. However, the side effects include fatigue, depression, and anxiety.
In severe cases where medication is not effective, surgery may be recommended. Funcoplication is a surgical procedure that reduces the acid regurgitation.
People with GERD should avoid spicy foods, coffee, alcohol, chocolate, citrus fruits and juices, carbonated beverages, fried food, fatty food, and tomatoes.
To prevent the symptoms, eat smaller meal portion. Avoid lying down within 2 - 3 hours of a meal. Elevate the head when lying down.
