Gastric Reflux (GERD): Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment in Bangkok, Thailand

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Gastric reflux, more commonly known as Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), is a chronic digestive condition that occurs when stomach acid or bile flows backward into the esophagus, causing discomfort and irritation. This backward flow, known as acid reflux, can lead to a variety of symptoms and may result in long-term damage to the esophagus if left untreated. GERD is one of the most common gastrointestinal disorders, affecting millions of people worldwide.

 

GERD Symptoms

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The symptoms of GERD can vary from mild to severe and may occur frequently or occasionally. Some of the most common symptoms include:

1. Heartburn

• Heartburn is the hallmark symptom of GERD. It is characterized by a burning sensation in the chest, often behind the breastbone, which may worsen after eating or when lying down. This sensation occurs due to acid from the stomach irritating the lining of the esophagus.

2. Regurgitation

• Regurgitation refers to the sensation of acid backing up into the throat or mouth. This can lead to a sour or bitter taste and may be accompanied by the feeling of food or liquid coming back up into the throat.

3. Chest Pain

• Chest pain related to GERD may mimic the pain of a heart attack, making it particularly concerning for individuals experiencing it. However, the pain typically occurs after eating and is associated with the burning sensation of heartburn.

4. Difficulty Swallowing (Dysphagia)

• GERD can cause narrowing of the esophagus due to inflammation, making swallowing painful or difficult. This sensation of food getting stuck in the throat or chest can be a sign of more severe GERD.

5. Chronic Cough

• A persistent cough, especially at night, is another common symptom of GERD. The acid can irritate the airways, leading to coughing or even wheezing.

6. Sore Throat and Hoarseness

• Acid reflux may irritate the throat and vocal cords, leading to a sore throat, hoarseness, or the feeling of a lump in the throat (globus sensation).

7. Nausea and Vomiting

• Some people with GERD experience nausea, and in severe cases, they may even vomit due to acid backing up into the stomach and esophagus.

8. Bad Breath

• Chronic acid reflux can cause bad breath (halitosis) due to the regurgitation of stomach acid into the mouth.

 

Causes of GERD

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GERD occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), a ring of muscle that separates the esophagus from the stomach, becomes weakened or relaxes inappropriately. Normally, the LES acts as a valve that opens to allow food to pass into the stomach and then closes to prevent stomach contents from moving backward into the esophagus. However, when the LES fails to function properly, acid and bile can flow back into the esophagus, causing GERD.

Several factors can contribute to the weakening of the LES and the development of GERD:

1. Obesity

• Excess weight, particularly abdominal fat, can put pressure on the stomach and LES, promoting the backflow of stomach acid into the esophagus. Obesity is one of the strongest risk factors for developing GERD.

2. Hiatal Hernia

• A hiatal hernia occurs when part of the stomach pushes up through the diaphragm into the chest cavity. This condition can weaken the LES, making it easier for stomach acid to escape into the esophagus.

3. Pregnancy

• Pregnancy can increase the risk of GERD due to hormonal changes that relax the LES, as well as the growing uterus putting pressure on the stomach, leading to acid reflux.

4. Dietary and Lifestyle Factors

• Certain foods and beverages, including fatty or fried foods, chocolate, caffeine, alcohol, carbonated drinks, and spicy foods, can relax the LES and trigger acid reflux. Eating large meals or lying down right after eating can also increase the likelihood of GERD.

5. Smoking

• Smoking weakens the LES, reduces saliva production (which helps neutralize acid), and increases stomach acid production, all of which contribute to GERD.

6. Medications

• Some medications, such as certain pain relievers (NSAIDs), asthma medications, blood pressure drugs, and antidepressants, can relax the LES or irritate the esophagus, increasing the risk of GERD.

7. Delayed Stomach Emptying

• If food stays in the stomach too long, it can increase pressure on the LES and make reflux more likely. Conditions like gastroparesis (a condition where the stomach empties too slowly) can contribute to GERD.

8. Underlying Health Conditions

• Certain health conditions, such as diabetes, asthma, and connective tissue disorders (like scleroderma), can increase the risk of GERD by affecting esophageal function.

 

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Treatment for GERD

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The treatment of GERD often involves a combination of lifestyle modifications, medications, and in some cases, surgery. The goal of treatment is to reduce acid reflux, heal any esophageal damage, and prevent complications.

1. Lifestyle Changes

• Dietary Modifications: Avoid trigger foods (e.g., spicy, fatty, or acidic foods), and reduce portion sizes. Eating smaller, more frequent meals can also reduce symptoms.
• Lose Weight: If overweight, losing weight can alleviate pressure on the stomach and reduce acid reflux.
• Elevate the Head of the Bed: Raising the head of the bed by 6 to 8 inches can prevent acid from traveling up the esophagus while sleeping.
• Avoid Lying Down After Eating: Wait at least 2-3 hours after eating before lying down to allow the stomach to empty.
• Quit Smoking: Stopping smoking can improve LES function and reduce GERD symptoms.
• Wear Loose Clothing: Tight clothing around the waist can increase pressure on the stomach and worsen reflux.

2. Medications

• Antacids: Over-the-counter antacids (e.g., Tums, Maalox) neutralize stomach acid and provide quick relief for mild heartburn.
• H2 Receptor Antagonists: These drugs (e.g., ranitidine, famotidine) reduce acid production and provide longer-lasting relief from GERD symptoms.
• Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs): PPIs (e.g., omeprazole, lansoprazole) are more potent than H2 blockers and work by blocking acid production in the stomach. They are often used for severe or chronic GERD.
• Prokinetic Agents: These medications (e.g., metoclopramide) help speed up stomach emptying and strengthen the LES to prevent acid reflux.

3. Surgical and Endoscopic Procedures

• Fundoplication: This surgery involves wrapping the top of the stomach around the LES to prevent acid reflux. It is typically reserved for severe cases of GERD that don’t respond to medication.
• Endoscopic Procedures: These minimally invasive treatments aim to strengthen the LES and reduce reflux using special instruments inserted through a tube down the esophagus.

4. Alternative Therapies

• Some individuals find relief from GERD symptoms using natural remedies such as herbal teas (e.g., ginger, chamomile) or acupuncture. However, these should be used with caution and discussed with a healthcare provider.

 

When to Seek Medical Help

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If GERD symptoms persist despite lifestyle changes and over-the-counter treatments, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider. Additional medical intervention may be needed, particularly if you experience the following:

• Severe or frequent heartburn that interferes with daily life.
• Difficulty swallowing or painful swallowing.
• Chest pain or discomfort that could be mistaken for a heart attack.
• Unexplained weight loss, nausea, or vomiting.
• Blood in vomit or stool.

 

Conclusion

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Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) is a common condition that can cause discomfort and lead to long-term complications if left untreated. By understanding the symptoms, causes, and treatment options, individuals with GERD can take proactive steps to manage the condition and prevent further damage to the esophagus. With the right lifestyle changes, medications, and medical interventions, GERD can be effectively managed, allowing individuals to enjoy a better quality of life.

 

Start Your Journey with EU Health Today!

Please email us at info@eu-health.com or chat on your preferred platform.

 

  +66-99-479-7168  @euwellness     euwellness