What is GERD and How Can You Manage It?

 Introduction:

 Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) is a digestive disorder that causes stomach acid to flow back up into the oesophagus. This stomach acid can cause burning pain in the chest as well as a sour taste in the mouth and throat. While GERD is not usually serious, it can cause discomfort and if left untreated, can lead to more severe health issues. Let's take a look at what GERD is, who is at risk for developing it, and how to manage it.

 

What Causes GERD?

The muscles between your oesophagus and stomach are designed to keep the contents of your stomach from going back up into your oesophagus. However, when these muscles don't work properly or become weakened, acid reflux occurs. This can be caused by certain foods or drinks such as fried foods, alcohol, caffeine, chocolate or citrus fruits; obesity; pregnancy; smoking; certain medications; or a hiatal hernia.

Who Is At Risk For Developing GERD?

Anyone can develop GERD but certain factors may put you at a higher risk for developing it. These include being over age 50; having asthma; regularly using alcohol or tobacco products; being pregnant; having diabetes; being overweight or obese; eating large meals close to bedtime; lying down soon after eating a meal; having had abdominal surgery in the past such as gallbladder removal or gastric bypass surgery.

How Can You Manage Your GERD Symptoms?

Fortunately there are ways you can manage your symptoms of GERD and reduce discomfort. Lifestyle changes such as avoiding trigger foods, avoiding lying down after eating a meal, quitting smoking, reducing stress levels and maintaining an appropriate weight will all help reduce symptoms of GERD. Additionally talking with your doctor about medications such as antacids or proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) which reduce stomach acid production may be necessary if lifestyle changes aren’t enough to control symptoms. Surgery may also be recommended in some cases where lifestyle changes and medication haven’t been effective in managing symptoms.

Conclusion:

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) affects millions of people worldwide every year and can cause uncomfortable chest pain as well as other unpleasant symptoms if left untreated. Fortunately there are ways to manage this condition including making lifestyle changes such as avoiding trigger foods and maintaining an appropriate weight level. Additionally talking with your doctor about medications which reduce stomach acid production may be necessary depending on the severity of your symptoms. By engaging in these treatments you will hopefully find relief from your GERD related discomfort!