Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) - Symptoms, Causes & Remedies for Relief

GERD, or gastroesophageal reflux disease, is a chronic condition where stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing symptoms like heartburn. According to the American College of Gastroenterology, about 1 in 5 people in the United States experience heartburn daily. GERD affects an estimated 18.1–27.8% of people in the U.S., though it might be even more common.

This article provides details about the Symptoms, Causes & Remedies for the Relief of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)

What is Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)?

GERD, or gastroesophageal reflux disease, occurs when stomach acid flows back up into the esophagus. While occasional acid reflux is common, if someone experiences it persistently, more than twice a week, it may be diagnosed as GERD.

Source: Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a chronic stomach problem where acid from the belly goes back up into your food pipe.

In GERD, the esophagus, which carries food from the mouth to the stomach, is regularly exposed to stomach acid. This can cause symptoms like heartburn and potentially damage the esophageal tissues.

Key points about GERD include:

- It may be caused by a weakened or damaged valve between the stomach and esophagus.

- Stomach acid entering the esophagus can lead to tissue damage.

- Managing weight, quitting smoking, and avoiding certain foods can lower the risk of GERD.

- Treatment often involves medications like proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and antacids, along with lifestyle changes.

Symptoms of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

Symptoms of GERD typically include:

- Heartburn

- Regurgitation

- Nausea

- Chest pain

- Difficulty swallowing

- Chronic cough

- Experiencing excess saliva mixed with stomach acid (water brash)

- Feeling like there's a lump in the throat (Globus sensation)

Causes of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

The causes of GERD, or gastroesophageal reflux disease, can vary, but it's often triggered by factors that weaken or malfunction the valve between the stomach and esophagus, allowing stomach acid to flow back up.

Source: GERD is a common condition, impacting as many as 20% of the world's Western culture,

Common causes and risk factors include:

- Obesity or being overweight, which increases abdominal pressure

- Pregnancy, affecting a significant portion of pregnant individuals

- Certain medications like asthma drugs, calcium channel blockers, antihistamines, sedatives, and antidepressants

- Smoking or exposure to secondhand smoke

- Hiatal hernia, a condition where part of the stomach moves up into the chest, reducing pressure in the esophageal sphincter and raising the risk of GERD.

How do Doctors Diagnose GERD?

GERD is diagnosed through various tests, which your doctor or a gastroenterologist may recommend if you're experiencing frequent acid reflux symptoms.

These tests include:

- Esophageal pH and impedance monitoring: This measures the amount of acid in the esophagus during different activities like eating or sleeping.

- Upper GI endoscopy: This involves using a camera attached to a tube to examine the esophagus. Sometimes, a small tissue sample is taken for biopsy during this procedure.

- Upper GI series: This is an X-ray procedure that can reveal physical abnormalities contributing to GERD.

- Esophageal manometry: This test measures muscle contractions in the esophagus while swallowing, assessing the strength of the sphincter.

- Bravo wireless esophageal pH monitoring: A temporary capsule attached to the esophagus continuously measures acidity levels for about 48 hours.

These tests help doctors confirm a GERD diagnosis and determine the extent of the condition, aiding in developing an appropriate treatment plan.

Treatment For Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

Treatment for GERD typically involves a combination of medications, lifestyle changes, and in some cases, surgery.

1. Lifestyle Changes

- Losing weight if overweight or recent weight gain.

- Sleeping with the upper body elevated.

- Modifying diet to avoid trigger foods.

- Avoiding meals at least 3 hours before bedtime.

- Using natural ingredients like aloe vera, licorice root, and turmeric, all renowned for their stomach-friendly properties.

These components are highly beneficial for stomach health and can be found in Cumargold.

2. Diet

Certain foods can trigger GERD symptoms, including:

- Greasy foods

- Spicy foods

- Chocolate

- Peppermint

- Caffeine

- Tomato products

- Alcoholic drinks

If avoiding these foods doesn't alleviate symptoms, it's important to see a doctor, as there may be underlying issues contributing to GERD.

3. Medications

Medications are often used to treat GERD by reducing acid production in the stomach. Among them, Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs) are considered the most effective. They not only decrease acid levels but also aid in healing the esophagus lining.

Other medication options include:

- H2 blockers: These also lower stomach acid but are less effective at healing the esophagus.

- Antacids: These work by neutralizing stomach acid and can be bought over-the-counter for mild symptoms. They may cause diarrhea or constipation.

- Prokinetics: These help speed up stomach emptying. They may lead to side effects like diarrhea, nausea, or anxiety. A recent study found that using prokinetics alongside PPIs is more effective than using PPIs alone.

Complications of GERD

Complications can arise if GERD is not treated, leading to other conditions such as:

- Esophagitis: Inflammation of the esophagus, potentially causing gastrointestinal bleeding.

- Esophageal stricture: Scarring in the esophagus from repeated irritation, resulting in difficulty swallowing.

- Barrett’s esophagus: Changes in esophageal cells resembling intestinal cells, which can progress to esophageal cancer.

- Respiratory issues: Stomach acid may be breathed into the lungs, leading to chest congestion, hoarseness, asthma, laryngitis, or pneumonia.

Recent studies have linked GERD to idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and complications in lung transplant recipients with asthma.

Source: Lifestyle changes for persons suffering from Acid reflux or GERD

Prevention GERD 

Preventing GERD involves more than just lifestyle adjustments. 

Here are some additional changes that may help reduce the risk of developing GERD:

- Eat small meals throughout the day instead of large ones.

- Avoid consuming very large meals in one sitting.

- Remain upright after eating, avoiding lying down immediately.

- Finish eating at least 2-3 hours before bedtime.

- Quit smoking or avoid exposure to secondhand smoke.

- Refrain from engaging in vigorous activities right after eating.

- If you are overweight, work on losing weight gradually.

- Avoid wearing tight clothing around the abdomen.

- Sleep with your head slightly elevated, using pillows or an adjustable bed.

In Summary

Occasional acid reflux isn't usually worrisome unless it becomes frequent and persistent, possibly indicating Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD).

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), while treatable, may lead to severe complications if ignored. Fortunately, a blend of lifestyle adjustments and medications can typically manage it effectively. 

However, in some cases, surgery might be necessary. It's essential to address GERD to prevent potential complications.