The ultimate guide to treating GERD
GERD is short for gastroesophageal reflux disease. It is one of the most common diseases found throughout the world. It happens when the stomach acids move up into the esophagus. It must not be taken lightly as it may lead to some serious health consequences. Heartburn, coughing and chest pain are some of the common symptoms of the disease. If a person feels acid reflux at least twice a week then GERD is the ultimate diagnosis. Doctors recommend nutritional supplements, medications, and surgery as options.
Causes of GERD
In sufferers, their lower esophageal sphincter and diaphragm prevent gastric reflux which is why the contents of the stomach move up into the esophagus. When the lower esophageal sphincter becomes weak or relaxed then acid reflux happens. Some of the common causes of GERD are as follows:
- Being overweight
- Pregnancy
- Smoking
- Some nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicines (NSAIDs)
- Hiatal hernia
Symptoms
Some common symptoms include:
- Heartburn
- Regurgitation
- Chest pain
- Difficulty in swallowing
- Nausea
- Chronic cough
Prevention
This disease can happen to any person with an unhealthy lifestyle. Some lifestyle changes need to be adapted to prevent contracting such types of disease. It is extremely important to walk after eating. Eat leafy green vegetables and fruits and avoid any foods which trigger this disease. Maintaining a healthy weight is equally important.
Treatment
The best way to treat GERD is by taking over-the-counter medicines or antacids. There are some proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) in pharmacies to help treat this condition. Nexium is one example of PPIs. It can be easily purchased from https://www.pricepropharmacy.com/product/nexium/ at discounted prices. It is used to treat severe heartburns caused by GERD.
Natural remedies
Some natural remedies which help in reducing heartburn related to GERD can be followed.
-Know trigger foods
Despite maintaining a healthy weight, it is extremely important to be wary of the foods that may lead to its symptoms. Some trigger foods which may cause acid reflux must be avoided.
- Fried foods
- Citrus fruit juices
- Soda
- Caffeine
- Chocolate
- Garlic
-Take small meals
Eating meals in small quantities may reduce the chance of heartburn. Prevent yourself from lying down immediately after eating. Walk a little to digest the food afterward.
-Quit smoking
Studies show that smoking leads to bad acid reflux as it damages the lower esophageal sphincter. The muscles around LES become weak which in turn becomes the cause of acid reflux.
-Herbal options
Some herbs which can be useful in treating GERD include:
- Chamomile
- Licorice
- Marshmallow
-Be stress-free
Stress is also the reason behind a stomach burn. Being stress-free is extremely important. Try relaxation techniques like yoga, meditation or breathing exercises to calm your body muscles.
-Incorporate ginger into your diet
Ginger acts as the anti-inflammatory agent for the stomach and heartburn. Adding ginger into your meals may reduce the chances of acid reflux.
-Wear loose clothes
Wearing tight clothes may make the body and heart suffocate resulting in heartburn so it is highly recommended that you wear loose clothes to avoid any feeling of suffocation.
