GERD Reflux Disease and Natural Home Remedies

While heartburn on its own is rarely serious, GERD reflux disease can become a problem if it is not effectively treated. When the lining of the esophagus is consistently exposed to harmful stomach acid, it can become damaged. The esophagus can narrow or develop open sores that are very painful. In extreme cases, the damage can lead to Barrett’s Esophagus, which is a precancerous condition that puts people at higher risk of esophageal cancer.  You will need regular cancer screenings if you are diagnosed with Barrett’s Esophagus.

While doctors cannot predict who will get reflux disease, there are some risk factors that increase your chances of getting diagnosed with this condition. Pregnancy and being overweight are two main causes of reflux disease. You are also at higher risk if you are a smoker, or have a chronic condition like asthma or diabetes. If you suffer from any of these conditions, it does not mean that you will necessarily get acid reflux. Not everyone who has the occasional bout of heartburn will go on to develop GERD reflux disease.

You must experience heartburn on a regular basis at least twice or three times a week to be diagnosed with gastroesophageal reflux disease, commonly known as GERD. GERD is very painful but rarely serious. If you suspect that you may have acid reflux disease, consult your doctor for an accurate diagnosis and correct treatment and possible reflux remedy report. In some cases, the most effective treatment plan for GERD reflux disease is found right at home, with simple remedies and lifestyle changes that can make the world of difference to your symptoms.

GERD Reflux Disease and Diet Changes

The first line of attack for GERD reflux disease is usually dietary modifications. Different foods trigger heartburn symptoms and by learning what those foods are, you can go a long way in reducing those symptoms. Citrus fruits and juices, chocolate, caffeinated beverages, alcohol and spicy foods are some of the main culprits. There may be other foods that contribute too. To make sure you know what makes your symptoms flare up, keep a diary of the food you eat and particularly what triggers a GERD attack, for a couple of weeks. Isolating these foods from your diet should reduce acid reflux from occurring.

Heartburn at Night

Nighttime is usually the worst time for GERD sufferers. If this is the case, there are lifestyle modifications you can make to keep your symptoms from keeping you awake at night. The first is to avoid food too close to bedtime. Make sure all of your meals are eaten in the earlier part of the day, and avoid any food within two or three hours of retiring for the evening. Never lie down right after a big meal, since gravity will work against you in pushing those acids back into your esophagus. Raise the end of your bed, or use pillows to keep your head higher, for a more peaceful night.

Lose Weight If You Suffer With GERD

When you are carrying extra weight, it puts additional pressure on your stomach, which can force digestive acids back into your esophagus. To reduce this problem, lose some weight and you will find the GERD symptoms lessen. Pregnant women can also experience this issue, but losing weight is not a healthy option for them. Many pregnant women overcome this problem by not eating three main meals a day, but have smaller, frequent meals during the day. Because it prevents further pressure on the digestive tract at one time it is just one effective home remedy for acid reflux. For many patients, these simple home remedies will be sufficient in keeping the symptoms of GERD reflux disease at bay.

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