What is GERD: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

 


Gastroesophageal reflux disease also known as chronic acid reflux, is a condition in which the acid-containing contents of the stomach persistently leak back up into the oesophagus. The lower oesophageal sphincter does not close properly when food arrives at the stomach. The acid backwash then flows back up through the oesophagus into throat and mouth, giving you a sour taste. It happens to nearly everyone at some point in life. Having GERD now and then is totally normal; however, if you having this issue more than twice a week over a period of several weeks and constantly take heartburn medications or antacids yet your symptoms keep returning, you may have developed GERD. Your GERD should be treated by your healthcare provider because it can lead to more serious problems without treatment.

 

CAUSES Of GERD

Aging

 As you get older, it’s common to have problems with digestion. This can cause GERD.

Hiatal Hernia

A hiatal hernia is when part of your stomach slides up into your chest through an opening in your diaphragm. This can make it harder for acid from your stomach to stay where it belongs — in your stomach.

Taking Medications

Some medicines can make GERD worse, including some antibiotics, blood pressure medications and even some antidepressants. If you take any medications, talk to your doctor about whether they may be causing or worsening your symptoms.

 

SYMPTOMS Of GERD

Chronic heartburn is the most common symptom of GERD. Acid regurgitation is another common symptom. But numerous fewer common symptoms other than heartburn may be associated with GERD. These may include: -

 

1. Belching

 

2. Difficulty or pain when swallowing

 

3. Waterbrash (sudden excess of saliva)

 

4. Dysphagia (the sensation of food sticking in the oesophagus)

 

5. Chronic sore throat

 

6. Laryngitis

 

7. Inflammation of the gums

 

8. Erosion of the enamel of the teeth

 

9. Chronic irritation in the throat

 

10. Hoarseness in the morning

 

 

TREATMENT OF GERD

 

Food intolerances and Allergies

 Food allergies can cause digestive symptoms such as bloating and diarrhea. Some people have an intolerance to lactose or gluten (wheat), which leads to bloating after eating certain foods containing those ingredients. You may need to avoid these ingredients for several weeks to see if it helps.

 

Digestive disorders

Some people have a digestive disorder called irritable bowel syndrome, which causes stomach pain, bloating, gas, constipation and diarrhea or both. Sometimes IBS can be treated with fiber supplements or probiotics taken by mouth; other times it requires medication prescribed by a doctor (such as an antidepressant).

 

Pregnancy

Many women experience bloating during pregnancy due in part because they produce too much progesterone.


CONCLUSION 

In case of any of the above symptoms, you should consult best gastroenterologist so that you can get proper treatment.



 

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