In this article, we will dig deeper into getting to know GERD, symptoms, and how to deal with this digestive disorder, which is fairly common and experienced by many people. GERD, short for Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease, is not only a complicated-sounding medical acronym, but also a condition that can significantly affect a person's daily activities.
Get to know GERD, symptoms and how to deal with it
GERD is a condition where stomach acid refluxes into the esophagus. This health problem, which is often called stomach acid, can be a disturbing problem and affect the quality of life.
Many ordinary people often think that GERD is the same as ulcers because the symptoms are similar, namely that they both involve the stomach organs. Even though the symptoms are similar, the causes of ulcers and GERD are actually different. Therefore, although the symptoms of GERD are similar to ulcers, it is important to remember that GERD should not be taken lightly because it can cause serious complications.
What is GERD?
GERD is a term used to describe symptoms or changes in the mucosa caused by disorders in the digestive system, where stomach acid rises into the esophagus or esophagus. This medical condition usually occurs when the valve between the stomach and esophagus, called the lower esophageal sphincter, becomes weak or fails.
This backflow or reflux can cause uncomfortable symptoms, such as a burning and stinging sensation under the breastbone which is often known as heartburn. This digestive disorder can even cause irritation.
Although acid reflux disease is common in the human digestive system, if not treated immediately, this condition can worsen gastrointestinal health and interfere with daily activities.
Symptoms of GERD or Acid Reflux
Common symptoms that appear when stomach acid rises usually involve a sour or bitter taste sensation in the mouth and a feeling of stinging or burning in the chest and solar plexus. The intensity of these two symptoms tends to increase when a person bends over, lies down, or after eating.
Apart from the sour taste in the mouth and pain in the pit of the stomach, there are several other additional symptoms that can accompany GERD, namely as follows.
- Heartburnor feeling hot, generally appears after consuming food or drinks that contain high levels of caffeine.
- Easy to feel full, this can occur when stomach movements are disturbed so that food tends to accumulate in the stomach.
- Increased frequency of burping, stomach acid reflux can increase the body's reflex to swallow air, which is then pushed up by the stomach and out of the mouth as a belch.
- Sore throat, GERD can cause inflammation and irritation of the esophagus (gullet), which can cause pain in the throat.
- Nausea and vomiting, the sour sensation along with frequent belching and coughing due to increased stomach acid can cause nausea and even vomiting.
- Regurgitation, the release of stomach acid into the mouth.
- Bad breath, regurgitation of stomach contents can cause heartburn and a bitter or sour taste in the mouth, which can result in bad breath.
- Cough without phlegm, these symptoms can occur in stomach acid disease or acid reflux that is chronic or lasts a long time.
- Potential tooth damage, repeated exposure to stomach acid can cause tooth decay.
- Dyspepsia, such as bloating, stomach feeling full, or discomfort.
- Difficulty swallowing. Sensation of difficulty swallowing food or feeling like there is a lump in the throat.
Interesting Facts about GERD
According to the American College of Gastroenterology, more than 60 million Americans experience GERD at least once a month. This shows how common this problem is in society.
Not only that, GERD can affect anyone, including children and teenagers. Lack of control of the valve between the stomach and esophagus is usually the main cause of this digestive disorder.
How to Treat GERD or Stomach Acid
Until now, there is no comprehensive knowledge from experts regarding how to completely cure GERD. However, people with this disease can control it through appropriate treatment.
GERD treatment is more focused on managing and reducing symptoms so that they do not recur repeatedly. There are several ways to overcome it so that it doesn't keep recurring, namely as follows.
- Lifestyle Changes
Avoid eating large meals before bed and try to maintain an ideal body weight. Apart from that, it is necessary to avoid foods and drinks that can trigger reflux, such as coffee, chocolate and carbonated or fizzy drinks. - Maintain a Healthy Diet
Adopting a healthier diet is also an important step. This includes eating foods low in acid and fat, as well as adding fiber to the diet. A regular eating pattern, with small portions but more frequently, and avoiding eating too quickly, can help reduce the risk of reflux symptoms.
In addition, identify specific foods or drinks that trigger symptoms and avoid consuming them. - Consult with a Doctor
If symptoms continue to persist, it is strongly recommended to consult a doctor for further evaluation and appropriate medical treatment. Consultation with a healthcare professional can help determine effective management strategies appropriate to each individual's specific condition.
Getting to know GERD, its symptoms and how to deal with it can help you in dealing with this health disorder. It is important to consult a doctor for appropriate treatment, especially if symptoms persist or worsen. For further information about maintaining health and getting the right protection, you can access BNI Life via link. By using this health insurance protection, you will be helped with health funding solutions to health consultations, including consultations regarding stomach acid disorders you are experiencing.
