How to Cure GERD Permanently
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a chronic condition in which the contents of the stomach flow back into the esophagus. This can cause a burning sensation, pain, and other symptoms. GERD is a common problem, affecting up to 20% of the population.
There are a number of different treatments for GERD, including lifestyle changes, medication, and surgery. However, there is no one-size-fits-all approach, and the best treatment for you will depend on the severity of your symptoms and your individual circumstances.
Lifestyle changes
There are a number of lifestyle changes that you can make to help reduce your symptoms of GERD, including:
- Losing weight. If you are overweight or obese, losing weight can help to reduce the pressure on your stomach and decrease the amount of acid that is produced.
- Eating smaller meals. Eating smaller meals more frequently can help to reduce the amount of acid that is produced in your stomach.
- Avoiding certain foods. Certain foods, such as spicy foods, fatty foods, and acidic foods, can trigger GERD symptoms. Avoiding these foods can help to reduce your symptoms.
- Elevating your head. When you sleep, elevate your head by 6-8 inches. This can help to prevent stomach acid from flowing back into your esophagus.
- Avoiding smoking. Smoking can relax the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), which can lead to GERD symptoms.
Medication
There are a number of different medications that can be used to treat GERD, including:
- Antacids. Antacids neutralize stomach acid and can provide quick relief from GERD symptoms.
- H2 blockers. H2 blockers reduce the production of stomach acid.
- Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). PPIs are the most effective medication for treating GERD. They block the production of stomach acid for up to 24 hours.
Surgery
Surgery is an option for people who do not respond to lifestyle changes or medication. Surgery can be used to tighten the LES or to create a new valve between the stomach and the esophagus.
FAQ
Q: What are the symptoms of GERD?
A: The most common symptoms of GERD include:
- Heartburn. This is a burning sensation in the chest that occurs after eating or lying down.
- Regurgitation. This is the passage of stomach contents back into the mouth.
- Nausea. This is a feeling of queasiness or sickness.
- Vomiting. This is the forcible expulsion of stomach contents through the mouth.
Q: What causes GERD?
A: GERD is caused by a weakness in the LES. The LES is a muscle that acts as a valve between the stomach and the esophagus. When the LES is weak, stomach acid can flow back into the esophagus.
Q: How is GERD diagnosed?
A: GERD is diagnosed based on your symptoms and a physical exam. Your doctor may also order one or more of the following tests:
- Upper endoscopy. This is a procedure in which a thin, flexible tube with a camera on the end is inserted into your esophagus. This allows your doctor to see the inside of your esophagus and look for any abnormalities.
- Esophageal manometry. This is a procedure in which a thin, flexible tube is inserted into your esophagus to measure the pressure in your esophagus. This can help to diagnose a weak LES.
- pH monitoring. This is a procedure in which a small probe is placed in your esophagus to measure the pH level. This can help to diagnose GERD.
Q: How is GERD treated?
A: The treatment for GERD will depend on the severity of your symptoms and your individual circumstances. Treatment may include lifestyle changes, medication, or surgery.
Q: Can GERD be cured?
A: GERD is a chronic condition, but it can be managed with treatment. There is no cure for GERD, but most people can find relief from their symptoms with treatment.
