Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) is commonly known as
acid reflux disease. It occurs when the
lower esophageal sphincter does not close properly, allowing acid to back up
into the esophagus.
The digestive organs
affected by GERD are esophagus (tube
that connects the throat to the stomach), duodenum
(the first part of the small intestine which receives the digested food
from the stomach) and the stomach (the
main part where digestion of the food occurs and produces acid that helps in
the digestion).
What can you do if
you suffer from reflux?
It is important that you consult a doctor when
you experience the symptoms twice a week.
An endoscopy is a test for diagnosing acid related diseases. After
diagnosis, possible treatment should be followed by taking the prescribed
medicines. If you are taking other
medicines, it is advisable to inform your doctor since there certain medicines
that can further increase acid.
If
your lifestyle increases the development of the disease, changing the habit is
best including food that aggravates the acid production in the stomach. After taking a meal, take atleast three hours
before going to bed at night to prevent reflux where the acid goes to the
esophagus. Losing excess weight and
avoiding certain food or beverages helps reduce the risk of GERD.
