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All about GERD: Tips that can help
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All about GERD: Tips that can help


Millions of people across the world suffer from GERD or Gastroesophageal Reflux disease, which is a common digestive disorder. It causes the acids from the stomach to flow back into the oesophagus, giving rise to various painful symptoms. With an estimated prevalence rate in the general population ranging from 8% to 20%, GERD is a common ailment in India.

Although GERD can affect people of all ages, it is more common in adults. According to studies, the incidence rises with ageing and peaks between the age group of 40 and 60. Everything you need to know about GERD will be covered in this blog post. So let's get started and learn how to control and reduce GERD symptoms with the help of senior Gastroenterologist in Gurugram.

Recognising GERD

Acid reflux, or GERD, is a chronic illness marked by the reflux of stomach acid into the oesophagus. The tube that delivers food from the mouth to the stomach is the oesophagus. The lower esophageal sphincter (LES) which is a muscle that typically functions as a valve allows food to enter the stomach minimising acid reflux from the stomach. The LES weakens or relaxes in those who are affected with GERD, enabling stomach acid to flow upward and causing oesophagal discomfort and inflammation.

Different GERDs

Non-Erosive Reflux Disease: The most prevalent form of GERD is non-erosive reflux disease (NERD). It is distinguished by classic GERD symptoms without physically visible Oesophagal damage.
Erosive Esophagitis: In cases of erosive Esophagitis, repeated exposure to stomach acid has caused apparent damage to the lining of the Oesophagus.
Barretts Oesophagus: Long-term acid reflux can cause the lining of the oesophagus to alter, which causes a condition known as Barrett's Oesophagus. This precancerous condition needs to be closely watched.

Signs of GERD

GERD can cause a number of symptoms, such as

  • Heartburn which is a burning sensation in the chest that usually occurs after eating and gets worse when you lie down or lean over. Regurgitation happens when the acid that tastes sour or bitter backs up into the mouth or throat.
  • A sensation of food becoming lodged in the throat or chest indicates difficulty swallowing.
  • Some GERD sufferers report chest pain that can be mistaken for a heart attack. If you're unsure, get help from a doctor right away.
  • A dry, persistent cough that is chronic in nature and may be worse at night.


Reasons for GERD

GERD is brought on by a number of reasons, including:

  • Lower Oesophagal Sphincter Weakness: The LES may loosen up or become less rigid, which would enable acid to flow back up.
  • Hiatal Hernia: This happens when a tiny opening in the diaphragm allows a portion of the stomach to push up into the chest. It impacts the function of the LES.
  • Diet and Lifestyle: Some foods, including citrus fruits, spicy and fatty foods, chocolate, coffee, and alcohol, can cause or aggravate GERD symptoms. Smoking, being overweight and lying down right after eating can all aggravate the issue.


Management and Treatment
A few adjustments to your regular routine can help you manage the symptoms of GERD. These consist of:

  • Maintain a healthy weight because being overweight causes the stomach to bulge leading to acid reflux. Weight loss can greatly reduce symptoms.
  • Eat more frequently, but smaller meals: Smaller, more frequent meals can lower the amount of stomach acid produced during digestion.
  • Prevent triggering meals and drinks: Determine which foods and beverages to avoid that make your symptoms worse. To keep track of your triggers you can also keep a food journal.
  • Elevating the head of your bed can help avoid acid reflux as you sleep by placing blocks under the bedposts.
  • Give up smoking: Smoking impairs LES function and boosts acid generation. Smoking cessation can significantly lessen GERD symptoms.
  • Wait at least two to three hours after a meal to lie down or get into bed. 
  • Medication: Over-the-counter antacids like Tums or Rolaids can temporarily relieve heartburn symptoms. Your doctor may recommend drugs like proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) or H2 receptor blockers to lessen the production of stomach acid if your symptoms are more severe or persistent.
  • Options for Surgery: In extreme situations or when medication and lifestyle modifications fail to provide relief, surgery might be suggested. Laparoscopic fundoplication, where the top portion of the stomach is wrapped around the LES to reinforce it, is the most popular treatment.


Conclusion

Your quality of life can be substantially impacted by GERD, but with the appropriate information and techniques, you can successfully manage its symptoms. You can get relief from GERD and stop its problems by making lifestyle changes, identifying trigger foods, and getting the right medical care. Do not forget to speak with expert  gastroenterologist in Gurgaon for an accurate diagnosis and a customised treatment strategy. Take charge of your GERD to get your life back to normal and symptom-free.

Dr. Amit Mittal, Head Of the Department and Senior Consultant

Gastroenterology

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