GERD or Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease
Occasional heartburn can be a problem for anyone after a large, rich meal; but when it bothers you regularly (at least twice a week), it is considered gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD. This condition is more than just annoying and uncomfortable. The effect of the harsh stomach acid on the tissue in the esophagus can lead to a precancerous condition called Barrett's esophagus or can be related to respiratory problems like asthma.
Let's define a few terms. The esophagus, as you may know, is the tube that connects the mouth with the stomach. Food moves down the esophagus after you swallow. Reflux, or the movement up the esophagus of stomach acid, is the result of either a weak esophageal sphincter, the muscular valve separating the esophagus from the stomach, or too much pressure in the stomach.
What can you do about GERD?
- Although the most common treatment for GERD in conventional medicine is medication, there are some basic lifestyle strategies that are very effective.
- Keep a food log to track the foods and beverages that make your symptoms worse. There are foods and beverages that weaken the esophageal sphincter: peppermint, citrus, caffeine and alcohol. Other foods have also been implicated: tomatoes, garlic, dairy products and high fat meals. Wheat and other grains containing gluten (oats, barley and rye) are problems for some people. Learn what affects you.
- Eat small meals. Large meals increase the upward pressure in the stomach and can cause problems even in people without GERD.
- Wear loose clothing. Even tight belts or waistbands can increase stomach pressure enough to force acid up the esophagus.
- Don't eat right before bedtime. Eat early enough to give your meal time to leave your stomach before you lie down. Let gravity help.
- Raise the head of your bed — again, to allow gravity to work. Raising your head by sleeping on two pillows may actually make the situation worse. Shoulders need to be raised as well or the esophagus can get crimped almost like a garden hose, increasing pressure in the stomach.
- Practice a relaxation strategy. Stress and anxiety can make GERD symptoms worse