Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) is a digestive disorder where stomach contents flow back into the esophagus, causing irritation and discomfort. This backward flow is commonly known as reflux.
 

Symptoms

Common signs of GERD include:
 

• A burning sensation in the chest or heartburn, particularly after eating or at night
• A sensation of food being stuck behind the breastbone
• Nausea following meals
• Less typical symptoms might include coughing, wheezing, difficulties swallowing, hiccups, hoarseness, or a sore throat.

These symptoms often worsen when you bend over, lie down, or eat food.
 

Causes

GERD occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), a circular band of muscle at the bottom of the esophagus, doesn’t close properly, allowing stomach contents to leak back. 

Various factors can contribute to this dysfunction:
 

• Alcohol use
• Hiatal hernia (where parts of the stomach push up through the diaphragm)
• Obesity
• Pregnancy
• Smoking or tobacco use
• Certain medications like anticholinergics, beta-blockers, and calcium channel blockers, among others

 

Prevention

Preventing GERD effectively involves addressing the factors causing it:

Maintain a healthy weight

Excess weight (obesity) can put pressure on the abdomen, leading to stomach contents being pushed up into the esophagus. This can contribute to the development or exacerbation of GERD symptoms. 

Avoid alcohol and smoking

Alcohol and smoking are known to relax the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), the muscle that acts as a barrier between the esophagus and the stomach. 

When the LES relaxes, it can allow stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus, causing heartburn and other GERD symptoms.

Avoid lying down soon after meals

Lying down soon after eating can allow stomach acid to travel back into the esophagus more easily, leading to heartburn and discomfort.

Manage stress

Stress can exacerbate GERD symptoms by increasing stomach acid production and affecting how the digestive system functions. 

Engaging in stress-reducing activities such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises can help manage stress and potentially reduce the frequency and severity of GERD symptoms.

Eat smaller, more frequent meals rather than large, heavy ones

Consuming large, heavy meals can put pressure on the stomach and contribute to the reflux of stomach acid into the esophagus.
 

Treatment

Treatment for GERD includes lifestyle changes and medications:
 

• Lifestyle Adjustments: Quitting smoking, avoiding alcohol, losing weight, and eating early dinners can markedly relieve symptoms.
• Medications: Over-the-counter antacids can offer quick relief, but other medications like proton pump inhibitors and H2 blockers might be prescribed for long-term relief.
• Surgery: In severe cases, anti-reflux surgery might be recommended to strengthen the LES.

Raising the head of the bed and avoiding certain pain relievers like aspirin and ibuprofen can also reduce symptoms.
 

When to Seek Medical Help

If lifestyle adjustments and medications don’t alleviate symptoms, or if symptoms like difficulty swallowing, frequent vomiting, and significant weight loss occur, consulting a healthcare provider is crucial.

GERD is not just an uncomfortable inconvenience; it can significantly impact quality of life and lead to more serious health complications such as esophageal damage or respiratory problems. 

Managing this condition through a combination of lifestyle changes, medication, and, in some cases, surgical interventions, can help maintain a healthier and more comfortable life.

-

Subscribe to our Weekly Newsletter and get instant access to new articles straight to your inbox!