Heartburn and GERD(Updated)

What is GERD?

GERD stands for gastroesophageal reflux Disease.It occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter does not closes properly and the stomach acid contents rise up back into the esophagus with food.Esophagus is the tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach.Lower esophageal sphincter is a muscle at the bottom of esophagus which links esophagus with stomach.

When stomach acid rises up to the mouth, a sour taste occurs and when the stomach acid touches lining of the esophagus, a buring sensation is produced in the chest and throat called heartburn.Gerd is a common disease, which if occurs twice or thrice in a week, doctor should be consulted or it can lead to more serious problems.

What are the symptoms of GERD?

The main symptom of GERD in adults is frequent heartburn, also called acid indigestion—burning-type pain in the lower part of the mid-chest, behind the breast bone, and in the mid-abdomen.Instead, they may experience a dry cough, asthma symptoms, or trouble swallowing.

What causes GERD?

factors that may contribute to GERD include

• obesity
• pregnancy
• smoking

Common foods that can worsen reflux symptoms include

• citrus fruits
• chocolate
• drinks with caffeine or alcohol
• fatty and fried foods
• garlic and onions
• mint flavorings
• spicy foods
• tomato-based foods, like spaghetti sauce, salsa, chili, and pizza

How is GERD treated?

If you have had symptoms of GERD use antacids or other over-the-counter reflux medications for more than 2 weeks.

Depending on the severity of your GERD, treatment may involve one or more of the following lifestyle changes, medications, or surgery:

Lifestyle Changes

• If you smoke, stop.
• Avoid foods and beverages that worsen symptoms.
• Lose weight if needed.
• Eat small, frequent meals.
• Wear loose-fitting clothes.
• Avoid lying down for 3 hours after a meal.
• Raise the head of your bed 6 to 8 inches by securing wood blocks under the bedposts. Just using extra pillows will not help.

Medications

Your health care provider may recommend over-the-counter antacids or medications that stop acid production or help the muscles that empty your stomach.

Surgery

Surgery is an option when medicine and lifestyle changes do not help to manage GERD symptoms. Surgery may also be a reasonable alternative to a lifetime of drugs and discomfort.

New GERD Procedure

If neglected GERD can have not only unpleasant, perhaps painful symptoms, but can also generate grave complications. At worst, it may even lead to the development of esophageal cancer. By practicing some behavioral modifications we can overcome recurrent acid reflux. Lifestyle changes are all that is necessary in preventing heartburn from becoming a chronic disease.
There are a number of effective treatments available, from medications to surgery. Don’t let the problem take over. Recently approved by the FDA, a new technology called plicator procedure is being used to achieve better results without major surgery.