A Quick Reference Guide for Gastro Esophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

Gastro esophageal reflux disease results when the lower esophageal sphincter becomes weak or relaxes causing stomach contents to rise up into the esophagus. Refluxed stomach acid that touches the lining of the esophagus can cause heartburn. Also called acid indigestion, heartburn is an uncomfortable, burning feeling in the mid chest, behind the breastbone, or in the upper part of the abdomen. GERD is also associated with other symptoms like gastritis, esophagitis, respiratory problems like asthma, cough, or al and dental problems, sleep disturbances and Barretts Esophagus and Cancer. GERD can be diagnosed by either of the methods like Barium Studies, Esophageal Manometry, pH Monitoring and Upper Endoscopy. Treatment for GERD may involve lifestyle changes, medications like Antacids, H2 blockers and PPIs, or surgery depending on the severity of symptoms and also an alternative method using natural approaches. Even treatment with medication is also well established for treating GERD, it is an important considera tion for patients to have access to alternative therapies and lifestyle modifications. Currently, research in this area is minimal and there is a need of more research activities in this way of treating GERD with natural medications. Abstract Gastro esophageal reflux disease results when the lower esophageal sphincter becomes weak or relaxes causing stomach contents to rise up into the esophagus. Refluxed stomach acid that touches the lining of the esophagus can cause heartburn. Also called acid indigestion, heartburn is an uncomfortable, burning feeling in the mid chest, behind the breastbone, or in the upper part of the abdomen. GERD is also associated with other symptoms like gastritis, esophagitis, respiratory problems like asthma, cough, or al and dental problems, sleep disturbances and Barretts Esophagus and Cancer. GERD can be diagnosed by either of the methods like Barium Studies, Esophageal Manometry, pH Monitoring and Upper Endoscopy. Treatment for GERD may involve lifestyle changes, medications like Antacids, H2 blockers and PPIs, or surgery depending on the severity of symptoms and also an alternative method using natural approaches. Even treatment with medication is also well established for treating GERD, it is an important considera tion for patients to have access to alternative therapies and lifestyle modifications. Currently, research in this area is minimal and there is a need of more research activities in this way of treating GERD with natural medications. Abstract Gastro esophageal reflux disease results when the lower esophageal sphincter becomes weak or relaxes causing stomach contents to rise up into the esophagus. Refluxed stomach acid that touches the lining of the esophagus can cause heartburn. Also called acid indigestion, heartburn is an uncomfortable, burning feeling in the mid chest, behind the breastbone, or in the upper part of the abdomen. GERD is also associated with other symptoms like gastritis, esophagitis, respiratory problems like asthma, cough, or al and dental problems, sleep disturbances and Barretts Esophagus and Cancer. GERD can be diagnosed by either of the methods like Barium Studies, Esophageal Manometry, pH Monitoring and Upper Endoscopy. Treatment for GERD may involve lifestyle changes, medications like Antacids, H2 blockers and PPIs, or surgery depending on the severity of symptoms and also an alternative method using natural approaches. Even treatment with medication is also well established for treating GERD, it is an important considera tion for patients to have access to alternative therapies and lifestyle modifications. Currently, research in this area is minimal and there is a need of more research activities in this way of treating GERD with natural medications.