Burning, aching or pain in the stomach or esophagus, reflux of stomach contents often worse at night in bed, burping or a sense of heat or mild acid in the throat occurring several times a month are symptoms of Gatroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD).
GERD is not a condition to be ignored. Erosion and irritation of the esophagus over time can alter the make-up of the cells lining the esophagus leading to an inflammatory condition called Barret’s Esophagus. This condition is only identifiable with an endoscopic exam. The exam involves placing a tube with optical and biopsy capabilities down the throat and into the stomach for visual inspection and tissue sampling. Barret’s esophagus is a concern because it can be a precursor to cancer.
When symptoms are relatively mild it is reasonable to try a one to two week therapeutic trial of the lifestyle changes mentioned below to see if the condition readily resolves. If resolution is not apparent within twelve days an endoscopy, blood test for unwanted bacteria (H. pylori) in the stomach, and/or barium swallow with x-ray (to identify hiatal hernia), are tests to consider. A hiatal hernia may compromise the integrity of the sphincter where the esophagus enters the stomach resulting in stomach acid coming up the esophagus, irritating unprotected tissue and causing discomfort.
Obesity and a western high octane diet rich in sugar, fat, alcohol, tobacco, coffee and large late evening meals is the perfect recipe for GERD. The abdominal fat of obese individuals puts added pressure on the stomach thus promoting reflux. Give these lifestyle interventions a try, I’ve found them to be quite effective in my practice:
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Diet: avoid coffee, caffeine, black tea, green tea, alcohol, salsa type products, tomato sauce, citrus or apple juice, peppermint in any form (tea, Altoids, etc.), nicotine, chocolate, pop or carbonated drinks, sugar type food, deep fried type food or heavy oily meals, large meals, and chewing gum. These all can lead to overproduction of stomach acids and/or cause the sphincter leading into the stomach to relax resulting in reflux of stomach contents.
•Try not to consume much more than 4 ounces of liquid during mealtime.
•For those taking vitamin supplements, try a 10-day trial without them and see if this takes care of the problem.
•Consuming high fiber foods including a variety of vegetables and whole fruits (not citrus) is one of the best ways to reduce the incidence of GERD.
•When you eat, relax, chew your food well, and stop stressing.
If your condition does not completely resolve in one to two weeks by following these suggestions talk with your physician. Lab tests may be indicated, and a more comprehensive treatment regimen may be required.
In Health,
Jon Dunn, ND
Dr. Jon Dunn is a Naturopathic Physician. Comments and questions are welcome and can be sent to wonc2000@hotmail.com or www.drjondunn.com
700 Garden View Ct., Suite 201M
Encinitas, California 92024
(760) 632-1665
