health Post

All you need to know about GERD

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a digestive disorder affecting the ring of muscle located between the esophagus and the stomach, which is called the lower esophageal sphincter. GERD causes heartburn, chest pain, and acid indigestion. It’s a common health issue that affects millions every year. GERD is a condition in which stomach acid affects the lining of the food pipe. The bile produced by the liver gets affected as well and irritates the lining. When the lower esophageal sphincter is weak, it pushes the food back into the esophagus, causing irritations and discomfort. Symptoms The top symptoms of GERD include Heartburn or a burning sensation in the chest after eating Chest pain Difficulty in swallowing food Food or sour liquid regurgitation Lumpy feeling in the throat Gastrointestinal bleaching Bitter taste in the mouth Dry cough and discomfort in the upper abdomen Causes and risk factors Acid reflux or acid indigestion is the leading cause of GERD. Certain factors increase the risk and further aggravate the cause and effects of GERD, such as Obesity During pregnancy Smoking Certain allergic medications Disorders of the connective tissues Emptying the stomach takes longer than usual Consuming heavy meals, especially late at night Specific foods like fatty and fried foods Excessive caffeine consumption or alcohol intake A bulge at the top of the stomach up to the diaphragm Symptoms The esophagus is exposed to severe complications following persistent inflammation.