Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a condition in which stomach contents, such as acid and food, flow back into the esophagus. Esophageal burns and damage may result from this exposure to stomach contents. It affects about 20% of people who have heartburn. The most common symptoms are heartburn (where the feeling of something burning in your chest), regurgitation (where food goes back up into your mouth after you swallow), or hiccups or a burning sensation in your chest – all associated with GERD.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a condition where the contents of the stomach leak back into the esophagus. It’s also known as acid reflux or heartburn, but these are just some of its symptoms. The acid in your stomach can irritate and inflame your esophagus, which can lead to chest pain and difficulty swallowing.

How to prevent GERD?

• Avoid foods that trigger GERD.
• Eat smaller meals more frequently.
• Losing weight if you are overweight, and raising the head of your bed 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 cm) can help prevent GERD symptoms by reducing the pressure in your esophagus.
• Keep food out of your mouth for at least 2 hours after eating so that it doesn’t get into your stomach or lungs, which could lead to acid reflux disease (GERD).

Symptoms of GERD

• Heartburn
• Acid regurgitation
• Chest pain
• A severely swollen esophagus can be a terrifying complication of GERD. This inflammation can narrow the esophagus, making swallowing difficult and even preventing you from exhaling properly. The culprit behind this life-threatening condition is often a perforation, or a hole, in the esophageal wall caused by the intense pressure from trapped air and stomach acid. While the swelling may subside over weeks with or without medication, seeking immediate medical attention is crucial. Remember, GERD itself can cause nausea, vomiting, and weight loss, so if you experience these symptoms alongside difficulty swallowing or breathing, don’t hesitate to call for help.

Treatment of GERD in India

GERD is diagnosed by an experienced Gastroenterologist. The doctor will ask questions about your symptoms and medical history, then examine the patient’s throat and chest. An endoscopy (a type of surgical procedure) may be used to diagnose GERD if other tests are inconclusive; in this case, the doctor will inject some type of liquid into your esophagus through a small tube inserted in your mouth.

A 24-hour esophageal pH monitoring test can also be used to determine whether you have GERD; however, this does not provide an exact treatment like other tests do and should be done only after other methods have been ruled out. For your Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease GERD Treatment in India, you can consult to Dr Pawan Rawal. Dr. Rawal has 15+ years of experience in treating GERD. You can book an appointment and you can take telemedicine also from Dr. Pawan.

Management of GERD

• Avoid eating foods that trigger reflux.
• Take antacids or anti-reflux drugs.
• Lose weight if you are overweight, but be sure to do it healthily. Don’t try to lose weight by starving yourself or cutting out food groups; this can lead to malnutrition and make GERD worse instead of better. Instead, focus on eating smaller portions at regular intervals throughout the day—for example, an apple instead of a large banana—and choose foods that are low in fat (such as fish). If you have any trouble sticking with this plan, talk to the best gastroenterologist in India about medication options such as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) or H2 blockers like omeprazole which may help keep Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease symptoms under control without interfering with normal digestion.* Sleep with head propped up on 2 pillows so that gravity helps reposition airways during sleep.* Lifestyle changes such as reducing stress levels may also help reduce symptoms of acid reflux.* Avoid smoking and alcohol; these substances can irritate the stomach lining which causes further damage

Endoscopic treatment for GERD

If you have tried all of your medications, and they are not working, then endoscopic treatment/surgery may be an option for you.

Dr. Pawan Rawal is one of the best GERD experts in India