GERD: Symptoms, Causes and Treatment

In Gastroesophageal Reflux Disorder, the oesophagus experiences a reflux of stomach acid. A doctor may identify GERD if a patient has chronic acid reflux that happens more than twice per week.

Food travels through the oesophagus, a tube, from the mouth to the stomach. Heartburn and other symptoms are brought on by acids in the oesophagus, which can also lead to tissue damage.

Stomach contents may run upward if the sphincter at the top of the stomach does not seal completely.

Many people understand acid reflux when the classic burning in the chest or discomfort after a particularly spicy or greasy meal is present. They may take antacids that bring them relief from the symptoms of acidity like heartburn and bloating. When acid reflux happens repeatedly over time, it can cause GERD. Most people are able to manage the discomfort of GERD with lifestyle changes and medications.

Here are some important GERD facts:

• A weak or broken valve between the stomach and oesophagus may cause GERD.
• The oesophagus can sustain harmful tissue damage from stomach acid that washes up from the stomach.
• Smoking cessation, stress management, and maintaining a healthy weight are all ways to lower your chance of developing GERD.
• Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), antacids, and other drugs, together with dietary and lifestyle adjustments, may be used to treat GERD.

Causes of acid reflux/GERD:

The occasional occurrence of acid reflux is relatively typical; it frequently results from eating a large meal, reclining down after eating, or consuming specific foods. Recurrent acid reflux, or GERD, on the other hand, frequently includes additional causes and risk factors, as well as potentially more serious side effects.

People of all ages can have GERD. It occurs when the valve that prevents stomach contents from returning to the oesophagus weakens or malfunctions opening.

Common GERD symptoms include:

• A burning sensation in your chest (heartburn), usually after eating, which might be worse at night or while lying down
• Backwash (regurgitation) of food or sour liquid
• Upper abdominal or chest pain
• Trouble swallowing
• Sensation of a lump in your throat
• An ongoing cough
• Inflammation of the vocal cords
• New or worsening asthma

Common triggers

It helps to know which foods, beverages, and activities commonly trigger heartburn and other GERD symptoms. Although it is important to note that each person is different and so are their triggers.

<h3>The following foods and beverages have been identified as common culprits:</h3>

• Chocolate
• Spicy Foods
• High-Fat Foods
• Fried Foods
• Citrus Fruits
• Tomatoes And Tomato-Based Products
• Onions
• Garlic
• Peppermint
• Carbonated Drinks
• Caffeinated Drinks
• Citrus And Tomato Juices
• Coffee
• Alcohol

Treatment Options

The cornerstone of GERD or even common heartburn treatment is lifestyle adjustment because it can help with symptoms. These alterations could involve:

• Sleeping in an inclined posture to lose weight for those who are overweight or have recently gained weight.
• Diet changes and staying away from food trigger
• Avoiding eating anything at least three hours before sleeping.

Antacids like Gas-O-Fast Asli Jeera are also typically used for occasional and mild symptoms of acid reflux and GERD. Jeera here helps relieve stomach gas by enhancing digestion and bowel movements in the body. It also causes the release of digestive enzymes, lessens bloating, and stops the body from holding onto water unnecessarily.