Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease sounds like something that we have never heard of. However, you probably know more about this disease than you think. Primarily, anyone can suffer from this disease, including infants & children. But it mostly affects adults. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease, or GERD, occurs when the lower portion of the esophagus (LED) does not close properly. When this happens, it allows acid and bile that are potent to human throats, to rise up. Most people are able to describe this feeling as though they have a nasty taste in their mouth or their throat and chest may began to burn. This is known to many of us as having heartburn or indigestion. When the condition is more serious it is referred to as GERD. Today, there is no known factors that cause GERD. Doctors have formed a list of possible things that may contribute to GERD occurance, or make it worse.
Factors contributing to GERD:
- Having a Hiatal Hernis
- Obesity
- Pregnancy
- Smoking
These are a few factors, but there are many more that are not openly discussed. A person who believes they have GERD should always seek help from their primary healthcare provider. He or she will probably tell you to eliminate certain eating habits, which may include the following:
- Chocolate
- Fatty Foods
- Alcohol and Caffeinated Drinks
- Garlic & Onion
- Mint Flavors
- Pizza, Spaghetti and All Food that has a Strong Tomato Base
Symptoms vary for each individual. Some people may feel severe heartburn while others will not. Sufferers generally respond by constantly coughing, having asthma like conditions, and/or trouble swallowing. At this point you may be wondering why GERD National Awareness is important? After all, if it is just a bit of acid from the esophagus, how bad can that be? If that is the way that you or a family member are thinking, it is time to get educated on the facts. GERD can cause the following:
- Inflammation of the Esophagus
- Bleeding or Ulcers around the Stomach Lining
- Severe Internal Scarring
- Esophogeal Cancer
- Death
Sometimes the symptoms above are not an indication that a person has GERD, but if your symptoms persist over one week, it is best to follow up with your family practitioner. A healthy esophagus will allow food to pass through and closes to prevent acid from entering and attacking the body.
Understanding GERD!
Written By: Te-Shandra Haskett, MBA
- EMEDICINE,HEALTH, SYMPTOMS & CAUSES
- WHEN TO SEEK MEDICAL ATTENTION
- GERD PROGNOSIS
- SELF-CARE AT HOME
- MEDICAL TREATMENTS
RELATED TOPICS:
- VISIT OUR HEALTH SECTION
- GENERAL HEALTH QUESTIONS
- HOSPICE CARE INFORMATION
- NATIONAL AWARENESS DAYS, NOVEMBER 2012
- WOMEN'S HEALTH. THE IMPORTANCE OF AN ANNUAL CHECK-UP!
- WOMEN'S HEALTH. THE IMPORTANCE OF AN ANNUAL CHECK-UP!
"Submit yourselves therefore to God.
( James 4:7)."
