Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease: General Information, Symptoms and Treatment of the Disorder

Before you start the therapy and treat the current symptoms, you need to be diagnosed with some condition. Gastroesophageal reflux is not very spread, though a considerable number of patients frequently report its symptoms. GERD can be defined as a digestive disorder, which interferes with the lower esophageal sphincter, more known as the muscle ring between the stomach and esophagus. Most commonly, people suffer from acid indigestion and heartburn, triggered by GERD. An overwhelming majority of medical specialists relate the condition to another health issue, known as a hiatal hernia. The treatment is rather simple and includes lifestyle changes and the medication course, though, before you start the therapy, you need to understand the essence of the disorder.

Gastroesophageal means the one related to esophagus and stomach, while reflux is more about the return or flow back. Consequently, the notion of gastroesophageal reflux can be defined as the return of stomach content back to the esophagus. The severity of the condition will depend on the functioning of lower esophageal sphincter and the type and amount of acid brought from the stomach.

Potential Causes and Symptoms of Health Problem

According to the results of specific medical tests and doctors’ investigations, GERD can sometimes be interrelated with a hiatal hernia, the condition, which weakens the LES and advances the risk of gastroesophageal reflux occurrence. A hiatal hernia is a dysfunction, which appears the moment the upper part of the stomach moves into the chest through the diaphragm hiatus. While heartburn is not an issue for such patients, simple coughing, straining, vomiting or physical exertion can lead to significant increase of the abdominal pressure, resulting in symptoms of a hiatal hernia. Pregnancy and obesity can stimulate the development of the condition, as well.

Apart from medical conditions, lifestyle and dietary choices contribute to GERD much, as well as a range of beverages and foods, including:

• Fatty food;
• Chocolate;
• Peppermint;
• Coffee;
• Alcohol can trigger the symptoms of GERD, such as heartburn and reflux.

Smoking is another dangerous factor, which contributes to the development and aggravation of the condition symptoms.

Heartburn or indigestion is the most common symptom of gastroesophageal reflux. However, patients can experience a range of other disorders, being chest pain, burning, tightness or pressure. Keep in mind that heartburn can sometimes be confused with pain from a heart attack or heart disease. To differentiate these types of pain, make some observations since heart-related chest pain will aggravate from physical exercise or other activities.

Ways to Balance the Issue: Nexium as a Dependable Solution

To get timely assistance and avoid unwanted complications, a patient should address the doctor the moment he/she has noticed the signs of GERD. On average, healthcare providers advise a medical course combined with lifestyle and dietary changes to improve the condition and manage its symptoms.

Considering the pharmaceuticals, which can effectively balance the disorder, you should pay due attention to Nexium as a top choice for the vast majority of customers. The remedy belongs to a group of proton pump inhibitors, and it is powerful enough to reduce the amount of stomach acid produced in the body. Proper medication intake will help you feel a significant relief after several days or weeks.