by GERD, or gastroesophageal reflux disease, when acid reflux is a chronic condition. GERD affects millions worldwide, 20% of Americans suffer from the condition, and 17% of Canadians do too. While you can manage it with medication and lifestyle changes, many people wonder if it will go away by itself. In this article, we’ll explore the factors contributing to GERD and discuss the likelihood of it resolving without treatment.
What is GERD?
GERD, or gastroesophageal reflux disease, is where stomach acid escapes and returns into the esophagus, causing irritation and discomfort in that area. This action can lead to symptoms like heartburn, regurgitation, and difficulty swallowing food. GERD is a chronic condition requiring ongoing management, but most people can find relief from their symptoms with the proper treatment.
Symptoms and Causes of GERD.
GERD occurs when the LES (Lower Esophageal Sphincter) is weakened. The LES is the muscle that separates the stomach from the esophagus. When the LES is weak, stomach acid can travel back into the throat, causing irritation and discomfort. Symptoms of GERD include heartburn, regurgitation, difficulty swallowing, and chest pain. Risk factors for developing GERD include obesity, smoking, pregnancy, and certain medications.
My personal experience
I was on prescription medication for some time off and on, but whatever the underlying cause of the dysfunction leading me to have acid reflux was not resolving. When I returned to my doctor seeking more medication three years after the initial diagnosis, she refused to provide a prescription. She encouraged me to seek lifestyle changes to manage my symptoms. I was upset with that recommendation because I was suffering and begging for relief. But my doctor explained research she had read on the use of Proton Pump Inhibitors, which I had previously been prescribed.
Long story short, I sought natural ways to heal and, in my search, encountered individuals who had recovered from GERD naturally. In their cases, it took them 3 months to a year to cure their GERD. It gave me much hope for my healing, and I thought it would also fall within that timeframe. However, after a year of trying to heal and failing, I was ready to give in. The Gastroenterologist and Internal medicine doctors I was referred to also encouraged me to modify my lifestyle instead of prescribing medication. So, I persevered in my search. It took me two years to have no heartburn, GERD, or acid reflux symptoms.
Lifestyle Changes to Manage GERD.
While I am not a doctor, I assume GERD cannot go away alone. Therefore, it needs to be managed using lifestyle changes to prevent further damage to the esophagus. In my case, I thought I was perfectly healthy. I did not drink alcohol or smoke, exercised regularly, and believed I ate reasonably healthy meals. Upon closer inspection, I observed that my choice of foods was toxic to my health. Lifestyle changes include avoiding:
- Trigger foods like spicy or acidic foods – which I LOVED!
- Eating smaller meals – I ate large meals at every meal.
- Avoiding lying down after eating – I got sleepy after nearly every meal, so I slept right after meals when I could.
- Losing weight if necessary – This was not my case; I am already thin.
- Modifying the type of exercise you perform – I was proud of my six-pack from the hard work I did at the gym.
- Quitting smoking, reducing alcohol consumption, and reducing anxiety also help improve GERD symptoms.
In addition to applying these changes to your life, work with a healthcare professional, such as a Homeopathic or a Naturopathic doctor, to develop a personalized treatment plan for managing GERD; This is very important.
Medications for GERD.
In addition to lifestyle changes, one can also use medication to manage GERD symptoms. Antacids can provide quick relief by neutralizing the acid in the stomach acid. H2 blockers and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) act to diminish acid production in your stomach. Your doctor is your best guide to help you in determining the medication best suited for your needs based on your symptoms and medical history. Following the prescribed dosage and talking to your doctor if you experience side effects is essential.
Read : The Problem With PPIs – Why We Say No to PPIs and Other Drugs – Acid Reflux Helpline
Natural Remedies for GERD
Diet
Get yourself a book with recipes that do not cause acid reflux. The book that was helpful to me the most is The Acid Watcher Diet. It’s easy to read, packed with readily actionable information and contains an easy-to-follow meal plan with easy meals. The author takes you through a comprehensive study of acid reflux. Hence, you gain a basic understanding of the condition. I love that the recipes do not include vinegar, processed food, or processed sugar, have a small amount of dairy, and are quick and easy to make. Dietary changes served on a platter!
Supplements and Herbs
Some natural supplements and herbs that may help alleviate symptoms of GERD include probiotics, ginger, licorice root, and melatonin. However, we must continue stressing that it is essential to run your ideas past your doctor or natural health care specialist before deciding to take any supplements or herbs on your own. This is because some biological properties of supplements and herbs can interact with medications you may be taking.
Breathing exercises
One natural way to help alleviate symptoms of GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) is through breathing exercises. It is said that deep breathing exercises help reduce stress and anxiety, which can trigger GERD symptoms. Additionally, practicing diaphragmatic breathing can help strengthen the lower esophageal sphincter, which controls the opening and closing of the esophagus, thereby reducing the likelihood of acid reflux.
Digestive bitters
Digestive bitters are another type of natural remedy for GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease). The bitters work by stimulating the production of digestive juices, which can help to reduce symptoms like heartburn and acid reflux. Some famous digestive bitters include gentian root, dandelion root, and artichoke leaf. Talking to your doctor before trying new natural remedies is essential.
Many more ways to treat GERD naturally exist. Depending on your situation and who you consult as a healthcare professional, they will provide different recommendations.
Surgical Options for GERD
Surgery may sometimes be recommended for GERD if lifestyle changes and medications are ineffective. One standard surgical option is called fundoplication. This surgery involves a doctor taking the upper part of your stomach and wrapping it around the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). This procedure helps to strengthen LES and prevent acid reflux. Another option is LINX, a small magnetic device implanted around the esophagus to help keep the lower esophageal sphincter closed. Discuss with your medical doctor the risks and benefits of these surgical options to help determine if they are appropriate for your case.
