Gastro Esophageal Reflux Disease also known as GERD is a backflow of gastric acids into the esophagus. Elderly people above age 40 are prone to this disease and it is known as GORD by the Britishers as they spell esophagus are oesophagus.
Symptoms of GERD are:
- Severe heartburns especially after meals.
- Regurgitation of gastric acid or sour contents in the mouth.
- Difficulty in swallowing and pain in the chest.
- Pulmonary Manifestation like coughing, asthma and inflammation in the vocal chords along with wheezing.
- Dissolution of tooth enamel if acid reaches the mouth.
- Sore throat.
Causes of GERD:
- The abnormal sphincter of the lower esophagus causes the gastric acids to reflux causing heart burn.
- Obesity and pregnancy can also cause GERD.
Home remedies to cure GERD are consuming small amounts of chilled fat free milk or water after every one or two hours. This will reduce the burning sensation. Drinking cumin seed water help prevent formation of gas in the stomach. Ginger root extract mixed with honey consumed after meals is also beneficial.
Heartburns can be reduced by having a cup of vanilla ice cream or by consuming lemons, almonds or cloves.
Suggested diet for GERD is:
- Avoiding spicy foods as this can aggravate the disease.
- Consuming small meals several times in a day.
- Avoid alcohol, smoking, carbohydrate beverages, tomato sauce, onion, garlic, citrus fruits and chocolates.
- Avoid sedatives, channel blocker used for high blood pressure and tranquilizers.
- Avoid consuming orange juice on empty stomach.
If GERC is untreated is can permanently damage the esophagus. Lying down immediately after meal should be avoided. Wearing tight clothes and belts should be avoided. Usage of extra pillows while sleeping is advisable to raise the head to about six to eight inches high