Gastric Reflux Disease Symptoms and Treatment
posted by: Rio Dianne
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a state where the contents of the stomach, particularly food, comes backing up the esophagus. This is oftentimes referred to as acid reflux thus causing one of the greatest symptoms – heartburn. This can be a big pain, thus learn more about gastric reflux disease symptoms and treatment.
Causes of GERD
Apparently, there are numerous reasons why one suffers from the condition. Some of the factors that tend to aggravate the problem include:
- Obesity
- Pregnancy
- Smoking
- Alcohol consumption
- Use of certain medications such as antibiotics
Symptoms of Acid Reflux
Some of the most apparent symptoms experienced by the sufferer include the following:
- Heartburn
- Difficulty swallowing
- Regurgitation or the food is brought up the esophagus
- Nausea after meal
Gastric Reflux Diseases – Treatment
Medication Options. There are plenty of over the counter drugs as well as prescript meds to help you cure this health condition such as the ones listed below:
- Antacids – they are known to neutralize acids in the stomach (e.g Calcium carbonate)
- Histamine antagonists (H2 blockers) – which decrease the amount of acid that your stomach releases (e.g. Zantac and Tagamet)
- Proton Pump Inhibitors – lower the amount of acid that your stomach produces (e.g Nexium and Prilosec)
Lifestyle Changes. Modifying your lifestyle can also make an impact on how to treat the health problem. Diet-wise, you should avoid consumption of greasy, oily, and spicy foods that can only worsen the condition. Alcohol consumption and cessation of smoking should also be done. you can also ask your doctor for replacement of medication prescription which you know causes symptoms of GERD.
Surgery. When the abovementioned remedies fail and don’t help on how to treat gastric reflux disease, surgery is usually considered. The surgery is known as fundoplication where an incision is made in the abdominal area and a part of the stomach is wrapped all the way around the esophagus.
Most patients suffering from it can greatly seek relief from making some changes in their lifestyle as well as medication treatment. But when you feel that the symptoms do no seem to go away despite the remedies, it would always be better to consult your doctor to plan other treatment accordingly.
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