Have you ever felt a burning sensation in your chest that made you feel suffocated? Usually accompanied by a bitter mouth. This is the main symptom of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD).

Then what is GERD like? What’s the difference with an ulcer?

Gastroentero-hepatology consultant and chairman of PB PEGI, Prof. Dr. dr. Ari Fahrial Syam, MMB, SpPD, K-GEH, FACP, FACG, FINASIM (@dokterari) explained that in contrast to ulcers, GERD causes heartburn. Meanwhile, ulcers attack the gut. But someone could have complaints of gastritis and GERD at the same time.

GERD occurs when stomach acid backs up into the esophagus (esophagus). This can cause irritation of the esophagus. GERD with complications can even cause symptoms of shortness of breath, shortness of breath, toothache, and ringing in the ears.

GERD is a chronic disease that can be exacerbated by anxiety and panic in the patient. Prof. Ari stated that this was caused by stress which could trigger the production of gastric origin and trigger recurrence. For initial aid, antacids (antacids) can be given to neutralize acid levels in the stomach. Increased stomach acid can also make you short of breath or feel suffocated. Prof. Ari said that this disease is closely related to lifestyle. Apart from stress, the habit of eating foods that contain fat, such as chocolate and cheese, causes gastric emptying to be disrupted. Diabetes and obesity are also risk factors for GERD. Therefore, lifestyle modification is the key to the treatment of this digestive disease.

To prevent GERD recurrence, it is necessary to control stress, be closer to religion, avoid chocolate, cheese, fatty, acidic, spicy foods, and give two hours of space after meals to prevent GERD recurrence. Meanwhile, for those who have already had GERD and have experienced symptoms such as weight loss, bloody bowel movements, anemia, it must be ascertained whether it is GERD by endoscopy. GERD must be treated, do not allow it, because the esophagus which is continuously exposed to stomach acid can cause injury and structural changes. In the long run, cancer can occur, especially if it is exacerbated by smoking.

So, PEGI’s friends are now ready not to fight GERD?

Greetings healthy.

Source:
https://lifestyle.sindonews.com/read/294816/155/berbeda-dengan-maag-gerd-bisa-bikin -dada-hot-1610110870
Illustration: freepik.com