Do you have Burning Sensation, Bloating & Burping?

[drbalo]

If you have the above symptoms, you might suffer from a condition called: GERD

GERD stands for gastroesophageal reflux disease. This is a very common medical condition, where acid from the stomach flow back upwards into the esophagus. Since the inner wall of our esophagus is not naturally protected against the corrosive effects of acid, constant presence of acid may cause injury to the esophagus wall.

What Causes GERD?
There is a special muscle called sphincter, which connects the esophagus and stomach. This sphincter acts like a gate that helps prevent food and stomach acid from flowing back into the esophagus. In GERD patients, this sphincter has become weak, and thereby fails to effectively prevent the reflux of stomach contents into the esophagus.

How Can GERD be Diagnosed?
Your doctor will carefully review your symptoms and medical history. Endoscopy may be done. In this procedure, your doctor is able to examine the wall of your esophagus through a fine-lighted tube known as endoscope. Your doctor may also recommend a PPI Test where you will be givena course of drug known as proton pump inhibitior to asist in the diagnosis.

Are There Any Medications for GERD?
A group of drugs called Proton Pump Inhibitors can be used to treat GERD. They act by suppressing the acid secretion from stomach hence reduce the corrosive effects on the stomach. Other medications available are antacid and H2 receptor antagonist like cimetidine.

10 Self-help Tips to Relief GERD
1. Take smaller, more frequent meals
2. Reduce your intake of spicy and fatty food
3. Stop smoking as nicotine in your cigarrete can weaken the sphincter.
4. Reduce alcohol consumption
5. Avoid eating within 3 hours before bedtime
6. Avoid bending or stooping after food
7. Maintain healthy weight
8. Exercise regularly. But avoid doing sit-ups and leg lifts as these can worsen acid reflux.
9. Wear comfortable clothing. Tight garments can put extra pressure on your abdomen and forces acid upwards.
10. Sleep with head of your bed raised. Don't use pillows. Instaed, raise the headboard by 6 to 8 inches.

I hope this post will benefit those who suffer from GERD. Please feel free to post your questions here. I will try to answer if I can. 

[aliun]

Thanks for info

[amanda]

chronic GERD can lead to health problems if left untreated. one piece of advice i could give is to talk with your doctor. he or she may recommend other ways to get relief.