GERD: 5 warning signs and symptoms and how to treat it at home
GERD: The 5 Signs and Symptoms and Practical Home Treatments
What is GERD?
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) happens when acid reflux occurs over twice a week. Acid reflux is the backflow of stomach acid into the oesophagus and up the throat causing the inflammation of the tissue lining. The constant irritation of the esophagus leads to tissue damage.
Long-term and untreated GERD in adults leads to permanently damaging the esophagus. Obesity, pregnancy, hiatal hernia, delayed stomach emptying, and connective tissue disorders are factors that increase the patient’s risk of having GERD.
By knowing the five major signs and symptoms of GERD, you may be able to treat it early and avoid an expensive operation. There are also home treatments that you may want to try before scheduling that appointment with your doctor.
THE 5 SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS
- Heartburn
This is the burning sensation felt under the breastbone of the lower chest after eating which increases when you lie down. Over-the-counter and prescription medications such as the heartburn drug Prilosec can provide relief but contain side effects that can be life-threatening.
Allegedly, producers of proton pump inhibitors and omeprazole failed to specify vital information on serious problems such as kidney failure and chronic kidney disease. To know more about the it, see more here.
- Chest pain
Another common sign of GERD is chest pain. Seek emergency medical care when experiencing chest pains along with arm or jaw pain and difficulty breathing. This might indicate a heart attack. See your doctor if you took heartburn medicines for over two weeks, and you are experiencing severe GERD symptoms more frequently.
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- Difficulty in swallowing
Constant backflow of stomach acid into the oesophagus damages the oesophageal tissues. This leads to spasms or the narrowing and scarring of the lower oesophagus and this causes difficulty in swallowing.
- Vomiting sour liquid or food
The sour taste in your mouth and throat that causes you to vomit is the backflow of stomach acid that goes up your esophagus. This happens when the LES (lower oesophageal sphincter), a valve or muscle at the end of the oesophagus, relaxes and failed to close properly when food enters your stomach.
- Feeling there’s a lump in your throat
Globus Pharyngeus, or the feeling of having a lump in the throat, is caused by anxiety and GERD. The reflux of the stomach’s contents traveling up the food pipe and sometimes the throat results in muscle spasms. This triggers a choking sensation, or something stuck in your throat.
HOME TREATMENTS
Home treatments can be very helpful in preventing or providing relief to mild cases of GERD. These lifestyle changes may also help you improve your well-being.
- Maintain a healthy weight
GERD occurs more often in adults who are obese or overweight. Excessive weight puts pressure on the abdomen causing stomach acids to backflow into the esophagus. Aim for a healthier weight by following a diet plan that will make you lose 2 pounds weekly. Maintain your healthy weight with regular exercise and a balanced diet.
- Avoid food and drinks that trigger GERD
Be aware of the food and drinks that may trigger acid reflux. By avoiding these, you will have lesser symptoms. Avoid the following: tomato-based products, fast food products or high-fat and greasy food, soda, citrus fruit juices, chocolate, mint, caffeine, garlic, alcohol, and onions.
- Eat less, sit up longer
Eating smaller portions will apply lesser pressure on the abdomen preventing the backflow of stomach acids. This helps reduce heartburn and the gain of calories. Lying down after eating triggers heartburn. Allow three hours to pass before lying down and elevate your head using pillows to prevent nighttime heartburn.
- Eat food that helps treat acid reflux
Consume food rich in fiber and protein. It prevents you from overeating by making you feel full. Change into a high-protein, low-fat diet to reduce dietary fat intake which lessens the symptoms. Chew gum after every meal to increase your saliva and prevent acids from entering the oesophagus.
- Quit smoking
Smoking and secondhand smoke destroy the LES (lower oesophageal sphincter) which helps prevent the backflow of stomach acids. Once these muscles are weakened, heartburn episodes will increase. Quit smoking to prevent further symptoms.
- Try herbal remedies
Chamomile, marshmallow, licorice, and slippery elm were used as herbal remedies for GERD consumed as teas, tinctures, and supplements. Scientific studies proving its efficiency are lacking and herbs and supplements are not monitored by the US FDA (Food and Drug Administration). Consult your doctor to see if these are safe to use with your current medications.
- Avoid tight clothing.
Tight clothing around the stomach area applies pressure on the abdomen causing acid reflux. Wear loose clothing and avoid wearing belts and tight bottoms.
- Try Yoga and other relaxation techniques
Stress triggers GERD and vice versa. Find ways to relieve stress. Once the esophageal muscles are relaxed, stomach acids stay where they belong. Try Yoga, deep breathing, and mediation exercises.
GERD is Manageable
Though home treatments provide relief for occasional attacks of GERD, you will still need a gastroenterologist’s advice on how these can complement your treatment plan. Lifestyle changes like making wise food choices, exercising more, living a stress-free life, keeping a normal weight, and stopping smoking can make a big difference in your health.