How To Live With GERD
GERD is a common condition when the stomach acid or food regurgitates into the esophagus. GERD is most commonly caused by abnormal functioning in the lower esophageal sphincter-the muscle that sits at the bottom of your esophagus and controls what goes in and out of it. GERD can usually be treated without too much trouble, but to find relief from GERD, you need to be aware of the symptoms and how GERD works.
How to get relief from GERD
There are a few things that you can do to get relief from GERD. First, make sure that you are aware of the symptoms and avoid any activities or foods that trigger them.
You can also try over-the-counter or prescription medications to help control the stomach acid. In some cases, you may need surgery to correct the abnormal function in the lower esophageal sphincter. Talk to your doctor to find out the best treatment for you.
What causes GERD?
GERD is most commonly caused by abnormal functioning in the lower esophageal sphincter-the muscle that sits at the bottom of your esophagus and controls what goes in and out of it. Other things, such as: can also cause GERD
- Hiatal hernia: a condition in which the stomach protrudes up into the chest cavity
- Obesity
- Pregnancy
- Smoking
- Certain medications
The symptoms of GERD
The most common symptoms of GERD are heartburn and acid reflux. You may also experience chest pain, a sour taste in your mouth, and difficulty swallowing. If you experience any of these symptoms, talk to your doctor to determine if you have GERD and how to get relief from it.
The symptoms of GERD can vary from person to person but typically include:
- Heartburn
- Regurgitation
- Dysphagia
- Chest pain
- Nausea
- Vomiting
There are a few things that you can do to treat GERD. First, make sure that you know the symptoms and avoid any activities or foods that trigger them. You can also try over-the-counter or prescription medications to help control the stomach acid. In some cases,
you may need surgery to correct the abnormal function in the lower esophageal sphincter. Talk to your doctor to find out the best treatment for you.
What positions are best if I have GERD?
The best position to sleep in when you have GERD is on your side, with your back curved slightly forward, so gravity does not pull stomach acids towards the throat. It can be helpful to place pillows behind your back and below the knees so that you do not lie flat on your back which will potentially increase symptoms, including pain during swallowing or choking sensations. If these positions still cause symptoms while sleeping, talk to your doctor about medication that will help relieve this during the night. If GERD is chronic, your doctor may prescribe medication for treatment while you sleep.
The best home remedies can help you get relief. If GERD is chronic, medications may be the most effective treatment for some people. Medications include diet and lifestyle changes. Medication can be beneficial if GERD interferes with your sleep or you have symptoms at night. Medications may also help reduce the long-term effects of GERD, which can cause serious health complications over time, such as ulcers, esophageal cancer, or heart disease.
Those who suffer from GERD know how painful it can be, so keeping a good "GERD diet" is essential in treating it naturally. The most effective treatments for getting relief from acid reflux include dietary and lifestyle changes. Diet plans may be different for everyone.