GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease) is a known problem of the digestive system. Many often suffer from this problem. When we eat food, it travels through the esophagus to the stomach. At one stage of food digestion, the stomach releases acid and enzymes called pepsin, which mix with the food. This mixture is further down the stomach for digestion. But sometimes if this mixture comes up instead of going down or enters the esophagus and if it is quite frequent, then it can be called GERD.
Why is
This usually happens if the junction between the esophagus and the stomach is weakened or damaged for some reason. This can also happen if intra-abdominal pressure is increased for some reason, such as pregnancy, becoming overweight, etc. Apart from this, smoking, some drugs can also cause this problem. GERD can also be caused by a problem in the stomach called a hiatal hernia.
How to understand
- GERD can cause heartburn, chest pain, sore throat when swallowing food, upper abdominal pain, nausea, cough, voice change, shortness of breath etc.
- Long-term complications of this disease can be narrowing of the lower part of the esophagus and esophageal cancer.
- Apart from this, frequent pneumonia and prolonged cough can occur.
Treatment
GERD can be controlled with certain medications that control acid along with lifestyle and dietary changes.
- Do not eat too much at once.
- Do not drink too much water with food.
- Do not lie down immediately after eating.
- Food should be finished at least 2 to 3 hours before sleeping at night.
- Avoid wearing overly tight clothing.
- Smoking, alcohol should be avoided.
- Coffee and chocolate should also be avoided.
- The head of the bed should be kept slightly higher while sleeping at night.
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