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Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) is a backward flow of gastric or intestinal contents into the esophagus. It is the single most diagnosed illness in recent history. Often brought on by excessive use of stimulants and stress, the symptoms of GERD should be treated immediately, to avoid any long term damage.
YOUR DIGESTIVE SYSTEM
When your digestive system is functioning in peak form, the lower esophagus sphincter (LES) works to transport food from the pharynx to the stomach by means of strong contractions. In between contractions, the LES closes to prevent stomach juices from seeping up into the esophagus.
THE GERD DIGESTIVE SYSTEM
When you suffer from GERD, the LES relaxes so much that it allows harsh stomach acidic juices to backwash into the esophagus, irritating its lining, and causing heartburn, pain and swallowing difficulty. The LES tends to relax after large meals, when bending over or when a lack of nutrition is apparent.
SYMPTOMS OF GERD
Regurgitation of stomach contents into the mouth.
Excessive belching.
Burning sensation in throat or chest.
Heaviness or warmth in chest.
Swallowing difficulty.
Mild abdominal pain.
Vomiting.
Nausea
LONG TERM DAMAGE
Failing to treat the symptoms of GERD with appropriate medicine can lead to further damage, including:
Tooth erosion
Laryngitis
Permanent scarring
Chronic heartburn has also proven itself to be a major risk factor in the development of cancer of the esophagus.
CAUSES
Stress.
Pregnancy.
Hiatal hernia.
Ulcer.
Delayed gastric emptying.
Overeating.
Excessive use of stimulants, such as coffees, teas and nicotine.
Improper diet.
PREVENTION
Avoid smoking, especially before and after meals.
Do not wear restrictive clothing.
Don't bend over or exercise after eating.
Weight loss.
Avoid heavy usage of OTC pain relievers, such as aspirin.
TRADITIONAL THERAPY
PAIN or burning can be relieved almost instantly with over-the-counter (OTC) antacids. Liquid antacids are especially helpful, as they work to neutralize acid and coat the throat and stomach, protecting its sensitive lining.
LONGTERM sufferers often benefit by taking acid blockers or H2 blockers, which slow or completely stop the production of stomach acid. Most doctors recommend taking acid blockers for six week periods.
ALTERNATIVE THERAPY
ELEVATING your head during rest and sleep hours will help to keep stomach acid where it belongs. In order to properly elevate yourself, raise the head of your bed by 6-8 inches using boards or bricks under the headboard area.
EAT meals at least 4 hours before laying down or going to sleep.
AVOID foods and beverages which stimulate stomach acid secretions. Stay away from spicy meals, coffee, citrus fruits, alcohol, chocolate, peppermint and high fat foods.
EAT small, frequent meals instead of the tradition three meals-a-day.
AVOID carbonated beverages after dinner, which only increase pressure and gassiness.
Although not medically proven, you may want to try the following:
TRY GINGER. Ginger capsules are very effective in treating GERD. Not only does ginger settle a queasy stomach, but it also helps the stomach produce a larger amount of mucous, thereby providing a natural covering for sensitive tissue.
LICORICE capsules, commonly sold in health food stores, will also help to naturally coat the stomach.
DIGESTIVE ENZYMES, such as Papaya, work well to help your body digest food more quickly, leaving less chance for GERD to occur.
MEADOWSWEET, another herb found in health food stores, is an excellent anti-inflammatory and antacid. It works to not only protect and comfort sensitive membranes in the digestive tract, but also to relieve any pain associated with GERD.
CHAMOMILE is another gentle herb that works well on almost all digestive problems.
MARSHMALLOW is a natural anti-inflammatory herb, which works well in conjunction with chamomile.
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