Issue link: https://blog.providence.org/i/1526715
10 | Health Matters: Providence St. Mary Medical Center Understanding and Managing GERD Explore the causes, symptoms and effective strategies for combating this common disease. G ERD, or gastroesophageal reflux disease, is a widespread disorder, affecting 20% of U.S. adults. While it's seen primarily in patients over 50, it can affect people in any age group. We spoke to Providence St. Mary Medical Center Registered Dietitian Kim Sturkie for information about this condition and how to manage it. What exactly is GERD? It's a common condition in which the stomach contents move up into the esophagus, usually from a weak sphincter, the ring of muscle that guards the opening of the stomach. Your esophagus is not lined with the same cells as your stomach, so the reflux, or movement of stomach acid in the wrong direction, can injure the lining. What causes GERD? It could be diet or lifestyle, and there is some evidence to suggest that it can run in families. In terms of diet, GERD is triggered by spicy foods, minty foods, alcohol, caffeine, chocolate and high-fat foods. Smoking, being overweight and not getting enough exercise can also contribute to this condition. How does it differ from heartburn? GERD is more severe than regular heartburn and occurs more often. With heartburn, you may just have a little burning and maybe some indigestion. But GERD is a different kind of burning, because the contents are coming up into your esophagus and causing more irritation than regular heartburn would. Where would you feel GERD? It would be a discomfort in your chest—from your throat to the top of your stomach, right below the rib cage. If you are having a lot of abdominal discomfort, that is not GERD. Are there times of day GERD occurs more frequently? It's commonly felt at night, especially when people eat late and go to bed soon after. It's important to eat at least three hours before bedtime so your body has time to digest. If you're lying down and still feel it, try lying on your left side. This helps with digestion. You can also prop yourself up so you aren't lying completely flat. Even sitting in a recliner for a while can help. What should you do if you suspect you have GERD? Visit your primary care physician first. If they think you have GERD, they may refer you to a GI doctor (gastroenterologist). They could perform an endoscopy to see if the lining of the esophagus is being affected or is abnormal in any way. How is GERD treated? It is preferable to treat GERD through diet and lifestyle changes; however, a GI doctor may prescribe medication, depending on the case. ESSENTIAL HACKS FOR MANAGING GERD • Exercise at least three to four times a week • Wear loose-fitting clothes • Do not smoke • Wait three hours after eating before lying down • Eat several small meals throughout the day • Eat in a calm, relaxed place • Sit down while you eat