GERD: How Lifestyle Plays a Role

If you’ve ever suffered from heartburn, then you most likely have a condition known as GERD. GERD (also known as Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease), is a condition that occurs when acid refluxes back up into the esophagus. Almost a quarter of the Canadian population suffers from Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease and experiences heartburn on a daily basis. 

The number one cause of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease is lifestyle; from the food you eat, the beverages you drink, to other lifestyle factors. Common foods that cause heartburn include citrus fruit, garlic, raw onions, chocolate, tomato sauce, mints, fatty foods, spicy foods; condiments such as vinegar, mustard, and ketchup; drinks such as coffee, tea, pop, and fruit juice. Many of these foods are known to relax the esophageal sphincter which then triggers the stomach to produce more acid. If you are a smoker, overweight, don’t get enough sleep, or find yourself is stressed and/or anxious on a regular basis, you are also at risk of developing GERD.

As mentioned heartburn is a classic symptom of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease, as well as one of the most common symptoms associated with this disorder. Heartburn is usually described as a burning sensation near the breastbone and it often occurs after eating. If you bend or lie down the sensation can worsen. In addition, you may also experience regurgitation. Depending how long you have heartburn and how severe your symptoms are, this could cause Long term injury to the esophagus. Similar to heartburn, patients may also experience something known as dyspepsia. Dyspepsia is generally characterized as a burning sensation or discomfort in the upper abdomen, and it may also cause gastric pain, burping, bloating, nausea and vomiting. Chest pain can also occur as a result of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disorder, and is often mistaken for a heart attack given how intense the pain can be. Acid that travels all the way up to the esophagus can actually irritate the lining of the esophagus which may also cause the voice to become horse. Sometimes it will sound like you have a sore throat or are getting cold. Additionally, it is not uncommon to develop sore throat due to GERD, as well as sore or blocked ears. Another classic symptoms of GERD is that you can develop a bitter or sour taste in the month. This is due to stomach acid pricing to the back of the throat. Patients with an GERD may also develop a cough as well as wheezing. This occurs when stomach acid backsplashes into the lungs. If left untreated this could become a trigger for asthma. GERD that goes untreated for a prolonged period of time can result in swelling of the lower esophageal tissue, which may result in the esophagus to become narrow, and could result in difficulty breathing.

Because lifestyle play such a significant role in the diagnosis and symptoms associated with Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease it is important that you make certain changes to reduce the symptoms of GERD as well as to prevent you from developing GERD in the future.

Dr. Ali Ghahary has already told you which foods can contribute to Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease. Now, you are going to learn about which foods are best for reducing heartburn or avoiding heartburn altogether. For breakfast, oatmeal is one of the best things you can eat. Not only is it healthy, but it also helps to absorb acid. It’s also filling and does not leave you feeling hungry. Ginger is another great food to use if you have acid reflux. For decades it has been used as an anti-inflammatory, as well as to help many other gastrointestinal-related conditions. You can add ginger tea, smoothies, as well as many of your recipes. There’s also nothing healthier than the salad. Is eaten on its own, salad will not aggravate symptoms of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease. However, as many salads come with tomatoes, onions, and dressings that are high in fat, you will want to avoid these, as these may actually worsen your symptoms. Fruits such as honeydew, cantaloupe, and watermelon are also said to be good for those suffering from Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease and reducing its symptoms. However, a small percentage of people say that these fruits actually contribute to their symptoms and therefore they must avoid them. Skinless protein, such as chicken and turkey, are also great for reducing symptoms of acid reflux, not to mention have many other health benefits. Chicken and turkey can be grilled, baked broiled, or sautéed. Similarly, fish and seafood are also great options.

For more information on foods that fight acid reflux, click here.

Common Digestive and Gastrointestinal Disorders

Over 20 million Canadians live with digestive or other gastrointestinal-related disorders, this according to the Canadian Digestive Health Foundation. There are over 15 types of digestive and/or gastrointestinal conditions, and they can all present with similar characteristics. Below is a look at the most common digestive conditions, their symptoms, and information on how they can be treated.

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

GERD occurs when stomach acid or bile backs up and goes into the esophagus. The most common symptoms of this disease are regurgitation, heartburn and indigestion, which can range from mild to severe. Individuals who are overweight, smoke, have diabetes or asthma are at an increased risk of developing GERD. If left untreated, GERD can cause inflammation of the esophagus, resulting in complications such as narrowing of the esophagus or bleeding, causing pain and making it difficult to swallow. GERD is usually detected based on the symptoms that the patient is experiencing. However, in some cases further testing may be required such as an upper GI series, also known as a barium swallow or pH probe tests. You may also be referred to a Gastroenterologist; they can perform a test called an endoscopy. An endoscopy examines your esophagus by inserting a thin tube equipped with a small camera down your throat. To treat GERD, over-the-counter medications are usually the first choice for treatment. These include antacids such as Tums, Rolaids, Gaviscon or Maalox and will provide almost immediate relief of heartburn. H2 receptor blockers such as Zantac are also commonly used to treat GERD and can also be found over the counter. Unlike the previous antacids mentioned, they do not work as quickly but will provide you with longer relief. Your physician can also prescribe stronger versions of H2 receptor blockers. In more severe cases of GERD, PPI’s (Proton Pump Inhibitors) are usually recommended. These block acid production and heal damaged tissue. PPI’s include Prevacid and Prilosec, which can be found over-the-counter, as well as prescription-strength medications such as Nexium, Protonix and Dexilant. Side effects of these medications are usually not a concern…however, they can be related to B12 deficiency with long-term use. If medications are not successful, surgery may be required to strengthen the lower esophageal sphincter.

Celiac Disease

Affecting over 300,000 Canadians and 1 in every 200 people in North America, Celiac Disease is considered one of the top chronic diseases in the world. Celica Disease occurs as a result of sensitivity to gluten Symptoms of Celiac disease can include abdominal pain and/or bloating, constipation and/or diarrhea, weight loss, vomiting, fatigue and anemia. While there is no cure for Celiac Disease, it is important to eat a healthy, gluten-free diet to lessen the symptoms associated with the disease. It can also cause certain nutritional deficiencies, so it may be beneficial to take a multivitamin to ensure you are getting the appropriate amount of nutrients into your body. For specific diet information, visit Dr. Ali Ghahary’s Wordpress blog at http://alighahary.wordpress.com.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Over 12,000 Canadians are diagnosed with IBS every year. It can cause mild to severe symptoms that oftentimes alternate such as persistent abdominal discomfort, diarrhea and constipation. Click here for more information on Irritable Bowel Syndrome.

If you suspect that you might have any of these digestive or gastrointestinal related disorders or others not mentioned here, make an appointment to discuss your concerns with your family physician. Alternatively, there are also physicians like Dr. Ali Ghahary who are available to see patients at their clinics on a walk-in basis.