- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) is a chronic digestive disorder that affects 20% of people in the US.
- Symptoms of GERD include heartburn, difficulty swallowing, coughing, and chest pain.
- Eating habits must be monitored to avoid GERD flare-ups.
- Sleep problems like insomnia are common for people with GERD.
- Oral health can be affected by GERD, and it can lead to tooth erosion and gum inflammation.
The digestive system is a complex network of organs and glands that work together to break down the food people eat into molecules that their bodies can use for energy, growth, and cell repair. Unfortunately, it’s one of the most overused systems in the body, and it’s one of the main reasons it develops chronic diseases like GERD.
GERD and Your Life
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) is a chronic disorder that affects the digestive system. GERD affects around 20% of people in the United States and can seriously impact your life if left untreated. Here’s a look at how GERD can affect you and what steps you can take to manage it.
Symptoms of GERD
The most common symptom of GERD is heartburn, an uncomfortable burning sensation in the chest. Other symptoms include difficulty swallowing, coughing, hoarseness, regurgitation of food or sour liquid, and chest pain. If left untreated, GERD can lead to more severe health issues such as Barrett’s esophagus (a precancerous condition) or even esophageal cancer in rare cases.
Eating Habits
People with GERD often experience an uncomfortable burning sensation in their chest after eating certain foods. This can lead to changes in eating habits as sufferers try to avoid these trigger foods. However, it is essential to remember that everyone’s body is different—what may be a trigger food for one person may not be for another—so it is vital to listen to your body and track what foods cause discomfort.
Sleep
Many people with GERD also suffer from sleep problems such as insomnia or difficulty staying asleep throughout the night due to uncomfortable heartburn symptoms. This can make getting quality restful sleep difficult, leading to fatigue during the day and difficulty concentrating on tasks at hand. Working closely with your doctor on lifestyle modifications and medications can help alleviate some of these symptoms so you can rest better at night.
Oral Health
GERD can also affect your oral health. Acid reflux can cause tooth erosion, gum inflammation, and bad breath. It can also lead to oral diseases like periodontitis and gingivitis. If you suspect GERD is affecting your oral health, visit your local dental office and check your teeth. They can help you find a treatment plan that works for you.
Social Life
Having GERD doesn’t mean you have to miss out on social activities; however, it does mean you need to be mindful of what you eat when out and about with friends or family so as not to trigger any uncomfortable flare-ups during the evening’s festivities!
Also, if you are experiencing frequent heartburn, it might be best to plan an afternoon or evening activity rather than dinner out, if possible, so you don’t miss out entirely on seeing your loved ones while managing your condition effectively at the same time!
Lastly, it can be helpful to discuss your condition with friends and family so they understand the limits of what you can comfortably eat or do. This can help them make thoughtful decisions about where for dinner or other outings.
Managing GERD
GERD is a chronic condition, and managing it starts with understanding. Here are four tips that can help manage and eventually treat your GERD.
Quit Smoking
Smoking is one of the significant contributors to GERD. Quitting smoking can reduce your symptoms and improve your overall health. You can quit smoking by gradually decreasing your smoking amount or using nicotine replacement therapy.
Eat Healthily
A healthy diet can help reduce your symptoms and prevent flare-ups. Eating smaller, more frequent daily meals can also reduce acid reflux. Avoiding fatty, spicy, acidic, and fried foods can also help manage GERD.
Manage Stress
Stress can trigger GERD symptoms. Practice stress management techniques such as yoga, deep breathing exercises, and mindful meditation to help manage your condition.
Exercise
Regular exercise can help reduce symptoms of GERD. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise daily to keep your digestive system healthy.
GERD is a chronic condition that requires time and patience to manage. If you struggle with GERD, speak to your doctor about a treatment plan that works for you. With the proper care and lifestyle changes, you can take control of your condition and live an everyday life despite your GERD symptoms.
