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GERD: RECOGNIZE THE PROBLEM OF HEARTBURN!

WHAT IS GERD?

GERD is caused by the reflux of stomach contents into the esophagus. Symptoms include acid in the mouth, regurgitation of food, and vomiting.

CASES

In Asia, GERD affects 5,000 out of 100,000 people. Its prevalence increases with age, impacting both men and women.

SYMPTOMS

A. COMMON SYMPTOMS

  • Acid rising into the mouth, food remnants, vomiting.

  • Heartburn.

B. OTHER SYMPTOMS

  • Sharp chest pain.

  • Difficulty swallowing.

  • Epigastric pain.

  • Nausea.

  • Coughing.

  • Throat discomfort, sore throat.

  • Hoarse voice.

  • Sleep disturbances.

  • Bloating.

  • Hiccups.

RISK FACTORS

  • Obesity.

  • Smoking.

  • Anxiety.

  • Stress.

  • Lying down after eating.

  • Acidic foods/drinks like chocolate, coffee, and caffeinated beverages exacerbate GERD.

TREATMENT

A. LIFESTYLE MODIFICATIONS

Effective treatments include:

  • Elevating the head during sleep.

  • Avoiding meals 3 hours before bedtime.

  • Weight loss.

  • Avoiding sleeping on the right side.

  • Improving sleep quality.

  • Avoid Coffee, alcohol, excessive Vitamin C, fatty foods, smoking, eating before bed, peppermint, and chocolate.

  • Balancing work-life and reducing stress.

B. MEDICAL THERAPY

Medical treatments:

  • Antacids, Gaviscon, Proton pump inhibitors, H2 receptor antagonists, prokinetics, baclofen, carafate.

  • Surgical procedures: Fundoplication, Linx magnetic ring.

  • Endoluminal therapy: Stretta, incisionless transoral fundoplication.

C. MENTAL HEALTH

Healthy mental health:

  • Stress management crucial; excessive stress worsens GERD.

  • Overworking, skipping meals affect GERD symptoms.

TIPS TO PREVENT GERD

A. REGULAR EXERCISE

B. REGULAR EATING PATTERNS

C. OPTIMAL STRESS MANAGEMENT

 

Source References:

  1. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK). (2023). Definition & Facts for GER & GERD

  2. American College of Gastroenterology. (2023). GERD Symptoms and Diagnosis

  3. National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE). (2014). Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease and dyspepsia in adults: investigation and management.

  4. WebMD. (2023). Treatment Options for GERD.

  5. Harvard Health Publishing. (2020). GERD and stress: Managing your mental health.

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