Well In my previous story about “GERD” (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease) I told you about my journey to finding out I was blessed with this and actually being diagnosed. Now I am going to tell you what GERD is and what I will be doing, and what you SHOULD be doing upon being diagnosed with GERD.
Gastroesophageal Refulx Disease, Also known as (GERD).. What an endearing name for something so awful… is a known and very common condition that occurs in people when food or liquid that has been ingested comes back up or leaks into the esophagus from the stomach. The most common and known symptom is heartburn.
Symptoms Of GERD:
Most Common Symptoms Include:
- Feeling Like food is stuck In your esophagus
- Bad Heartburn that is increased by or More pronounced by: Laying Down, bending and/or eating, Relieved by Antacids, or at night time.
- Nausea/vomiting after eating
Symptoms that are less common include:
- Regurgitation of food (Food coming back up)
- Difficulty Swallowing
- Coughing
- Frequent Hiccups
- Sore Throat
- Horseness when speaking
Upon being diagnosed with Gastroesophageal Refulx Disease (GERD) you need to evaluate your lifestyle. A lot can be helped with a change in your habits and diet. Avoid foods that you are aware cause you distress, journal what you are eating and any symptoms experienced to make it easier to pin point your problem foods. Quit smoking, Limit your Alcohol consumption as well as your coffee intake and of course see your Doctor to see what medications they can prescribe you to help control the problem.
Complications That Can Result From GERD:
- Esophageal Ulcer
- Asthma
- Stricture (The esophagus Narrows due to scarring)
- Dental Issues
- Irritation or spasms of Airways because of Acid (aka: Bronchospasm)
- A Change in the Esophagus Lining that can Cause Cancer
If you have any symptoms of GERD please see your Doctor untreated this can cause more serious problems.
*I am in no way a medical professional and this is not to be used as a diagnostic tool or medical advice.