GERD
Gastroesophageal reflux disease is a condition in which stomach acid repeatedly flows back up into the tube connecting the mouth and stomach, called the oesophagus. It’s often called GERD for short. This backwash is known as acid reflux, and it can irritate the lining of the oesophagus.
Causes
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1. Weak Lower Esophageal Sphincter (LES):When the LES relaxes inappropriately, stomach contents can flow back.
2. Hiatal Hernia: A condition where the upper part of the stomach bulges through the diaphragm into the chest cavity.
3. Obesity: Excess fat can put pressure on the abdomen, pushing stomach contents upward.
4. Smoking: Weakens the LES.
5. Pregnancy:Increases abdominal pressure.
6. Dietary Factors: Eating large meals, lying down after eating, consuming trigger foods (fatty or fried foods, chocolate, caffeine, alcohol).
7. Medications: Certain drugs, including anticholinergics, sedatives, and calcium channel blockers, can relax the LES.
Types Of GERD
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1. Erosive Esophagitis: Damage to the esophageal lining from stomach acid, leading to ulcers or sores.
2. Non-Erosive Reflux Disease (NERD): Acid reflux without visible damage to the esophagus.
3. Silent Reflux (Laryngopharyngeal Reflux):Acid reaches the throat, leading to symptoms without typical heartburn.
Symptoms
- 1. Heartburn: Burning sensation in the chest, often after eating or at night. 2. Regurgitation: Sour or bitter-tasting acid backing up into the throat or mouth. 3. Chest Pain:Can mimic a heart attack but is often related to reflux. 4. Difficulty Swallowing (Dysphagia): Sensation of food being stuck in the throat. 5. Chronic Cough or Sore Throat: Especially at night or in the morning. 6. Hoarseness or Voice Changes: Due to irritation of the vocal cords from acid. 7. Bad Breath:Caused by regurgitation of acid and undigested food particles.
Homoeopathic Medicines For GERD
These homeopathic medicines should be taken under the guidance of a qualified homeopathic practitioner.
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1. Nux Vomica:
For heartburn caused by overeating, alcohol, or spicy food. Best suited for individuals with an irritable temperament
2. Pulsatilla: Useful when GERD is aggravated by rich, fatty foods. Symptoms include nausea, regurgitation, and a lack of thirst.
3. Lycopodium: For bloating, belching, and acid reflux, often accompanied by digestive complaints after a meal.
4. Arsenicum Album: For burning pain in the stomach, especially after consuming cold food or drink. Helps with restlessness and anxiety.
5. Carbo Vegetabilis: Used for indigestion, bloating, and heartburn with a lot of gas formation and sour belching. 6. Natrum Phosphoricum: Suitable for acid reflux with sour burping and a yellow-coated tongue. It also helps in cases of hyperacidity.
7. Iris Versicolor: For burning sensation with regurgitation of acidic or sour substances. Often used for intense burning in the stomach and esophagus.
PRECAUTIONS WITH HOMOEOPATHIC TREATMENT:
Avoid self-medication; consult our team of qualified homeopathic doctors to determine the right remedy and dosage for your specific case to get best treatment for your sufferings.