Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease GERD
GERD occurs when stomach acid repeatedly flows back into the tube connecting your mouth and stomach (esophagus).
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease GERD
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) occurs when stomach acid repeatedly flows back into the tube connecting your mouth and stomach (esophagus). This backwash (acid reflux) can irritate the lining of your esophagus. This condition can cause discomfort after eating limiting the foods a person can enjoy, lead to nutrient deficiencies with medication use and due to acid imbalance, and lead to decreased sleep due to abdominal pain at night.
Did you know?
GERD can permanently damage the inside lining of your esophagus. GERD can also affect your voice box, windpipe, and lungs.
Symptoms of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease GERD
- A burning sensation in your chest (heartburn), usually after eating
- Regurgitation of food or sour liquid in mouth (vomit taste)
- Trouble swallowing
- Upper abdominal or chest pain
- Sensation of a lump in your throat
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Hoarseness
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) - Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease GERD
What is causing my GERD?
GERD can be brought on by poor diet, medication use, and stress which can lead to dysbiosis or bacterial imbalance in the GI tract as well inadequate digestion and absorption of food and impaired motility of the GI tract. H.pylori is a common but that is implicated in the development of GERD. H. Pylori is a normal, commensal bacteria that is normally found in the GI tract. It can become overgrown in an imbalanced environment.
What are typical treatments for GERD?
Typical treatments are aimed at treating the immediate symptom with medications like proton pump inhibotors, antacids, and antidiarrheals. These medications will make the symptoms better with their use but do not address the cause leading to dependency on the medication and frequent dosage changes. Protoon pump inhibitors are known for the nutrient deficiencies they cause namely b vitamins, vitamin C, calcium, iron and magnesium metabolism.
How do I figure out what is causing my diarrhea?
How do I figure out what is causing my GERD?
-Getting a comprehensive stool analysis will allow your practitioner to see exactly what is going on inside of your GI tract I.e. bacterial balance, digestion and absorption markers, pathogenic overgrowth, and inflammation. This will allow for a customized treatment plan to be developed based on your symptoms, history and biomarker analysis. Addressing lifestyle factors such as diet, exercise, sleep, and stress management are also important aspects to a comprehensive treatment plan.
