How does gerd affect the digestive system

Many overweight individuals find symptom relief when they lose some weight, as excess bulk, especially around the abdomen, might put pressure on the digestive tract, negatively affecting its function. Avoid clothes that fit tightly around the waist, as these also increase abdominal stress. People who have GERD should avoid lying down right after eating and refrain from eating within two to three hours of bedtime.

To reduce nighttime symptoms, elevating the head of the bed about six inches may also help, but make sure to do this by propping up the mattress or bed frame, not by using pillows.

Using pillows can lead to back or neck pain and compression on the stomach that could actually increase GERD symptoms. There are two main approaches to treating GERD with medications: neutralizing acid and blocking its production. Some find that these non-prescription antacids provide quick, temporary, or partial relief but they do not prevent heartburn. Consult your physician if you are using antacids for more than three weeks.

Two classes of medication that suppress acid secretion are histamine-2 receptor antagonists H 2 RAs and proton pump inhibitors PPIs. Treatments that reduce reflux by increasing LES pressure and downward esophageal contractions are metoclopramide and domperidone maleate. All of the medications discussed above have specific treatment regimens, which you must follow closely for maximum effect. Usually, a combination of these measures can successfully control the symptoms of acid reflux.

Be sure to ask your pharmacist or physician if any products you are currently taking could be affecting your symptoms. GERD is a chronic condition that can range from mild to severe. Individuals can successfully manage most cases of GERD with lifestyle and dietary changes and medications.

Serious complications are rare. Gastroesophageal reflux disease GERD Gastroesophageal reflux disease occurs when the upper portion of the digestive tract is not functioning properly, causing stomach contents to flow back into the esophagus. Management of GERD Dietary and Lifestyle Modifications Although clinical evidence suggests that dietary and lifestyle modifications are usually not sufficient to bring chronic GERD under control, your physician might suggest a number of dietary and lifestyle changes directed at reducing your symptoms, and adhering to these recommendations might provide some relief.

Medications There are two main approaches to treating GERD with medications: neutralizing acid and blocking its production. H 2 RAs work by blocking the effect of histamine, which stimulates certain cells in the stomach to produce acid. Also, this irritation can trigger allergic reactions and make the airways more sensitive to environmental conditions such as smoke or cold air. Symptoms Everyone has experienced gastroesophageal reflux. It happens when you burp, have an acid taste in your mouth or have heartburn.

However, if these symptoms interfere with your daily life it is time to see your physician. Studies have shown that people with asthma and GERD saw a decrease in asthma symptoms and asthma medication use after treating their reflux disease. Your physician may also recommend medications to treat reflux or relieve symptoms.

Over-the-counter antacids and H2 blockers may help decrease the effects of stomach acid. Proton pump inhibitors block acid production and also may be effective. This content does not have an English version. This content does not have an Arabic version.

How heartburn and GERD occur Acid reflux occurs when the sphincter muscle at the lower end of your esophagus relaxes at the wrong time, allowing stomach acid to back up into your esophagus. Email address. First Name let us know your preferred name. Last Name.

Thank you for subscribing Your in-depth digestive health guide will be in your inbox shortly. Sorry something went wrong with your subscription Please, try again in a couple of minutes Retry. Request an Appointment at Mayo Clinic. Share on: Facebook Twitter. Show references Kahrilas PJ. Clinical manifestations and diagnosis of gastroesophageal reflux in adults. Accessed Jan. Feldman M, et al.

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