It is a chronic condition of mucosal damage caused by stomach acid coming up from the stomach into the esophagus. Occasional reflux causes heartburn, but chronic reflux leads to reflux esophagitis.
the contents of the stomach reflux backwards into the esophagus. Since the stomach contents are acidic in nature, this damages the inner lining of the food pipe and causes symptoms of heartburn, pain, etc.
At the junction of the esophagus and the stomach is a muscular gateway (called lower esophageal sphincter or LES). Under normal circumstances, this sphincter remains contracted so that no contents of the stomach can go back into the esophagus but when this sphincter becomes relaxed due to any reason or is weak, it may allow the contents of the stomach to flow back into the esophagus causing inflammation of the lining of the esophagus
GERD Causes
Functional abnormalities of the lower esophageal sphincter
Hiatus Hernia
Abnormal esophageal contractions:
Delayed emptying of the stomach:
Dietary habits:
Habits: Use of alcohol, cigarettes;
poor posture (slouching) especially after meals
Eating habits: Large meals, eating soon before sleeping
Other contributory conditions: Obesity, pregnancy, diabetes, rapid weight gain, etc.
Stress: Though this has not been directly linked to GERD, most patients report an increase in their symptoms during stressful times.Other medical conditions: Diabetes, pregnancy, Obesity
GERD signs and symptoms include:
A burning sensation in your chest (heartburn), sometimes spreading to your throat, along with a sour taste in your mouth
Chest pain
Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
Dry cough
Hoarseness or sore throat
Regurgitation of food or sour liquid (acid reflux)
Sensation of a lump in your throat
DIAGNOSIS
Upper Gastrointestinal Endoscopy: and to rule out any complications of GERD.
Biopsy of the esophagus is more important for ruling out cancer of the esophagus or other cellular changes as a cause of heartburn. A biopsy can also pick up other cellular changes that may be complications of GERD.
Specialised x-ray of the esophagus (called esophagram) using barium as contrast: This is done to rule out complications of GERD such as ulcers, strictures, etc.
Esophageal motility testing: To evaluate the function of the muscles of the esophagus.
Gastric emptying studies: To detect if the patient has slow emptying of the stomach.
Esophageal acid testing: To determine the amount of time during 24 hours that the esophagus contains acid.
HOMOEOPATHIC TREATMENT FOR GASTROESOPHAGEAL REFLUX DISEASE (GERD)
Homoeopathy is very proficient in managing all the symptoms of Acid Reflux and furthermore plays a vital role in preventing relapse of the condition. Homoeopathic medicines are prescribed on the basis of physical, emotional, and genetic make up that individualizes a person. This constitutional approach framing mind and body works at the root-level Since Homeopathy treats in totality, it leads to a permanent long-lasting cure, rather than a temporary suppression of symptoms, and you will be able to enjoy all kinds of food to the fullest. So, food lovers, you won’t have to think anymore before eating.