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Symptoms of GERD
Symptoms of GERD (Gastroesophageal
Reflux Disease) include a
burning sensation in the chest
and throat better known as
heartburn. GERD is a condition
in which acid from the stomach
moves backwards through the
lower esophageal sphincter and
into the esophagus. The
esophagus carries food from the
mouth to the stomach. The lower
esophageal sphincter keeps food
and acid from flowing back into
the esophagus, however,
sometimes this muscle is
weakened. There are several
factors that contribute to the
cause of GERD.
Additional Symptoms of GERD
include:
- Regurgitation
- Hoarseness
- Chronic cough
- Feeling like there is
lump in the throat
- Chest sensation or pain
- Chronic nausea and
vomiting usually after meals
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If GERD is left untreated, it
can lead to more severe
complications. The esophagus is
made of three layers. These
include an outer fibrous layer,
middle layer of smooth muscle,
and an inner membrane that
contains tiny glands. When
stomach enzymes back flow into
the esophagus, the lining offers
a weak defense. Prolonged
untreated symptoms of GERD can
lead to severe complications and
an esophagectomy (surgical
removal of the esophagus) may be
necessary.
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Chronic heartburn -
A burning sensation,
usually centered in the middle of the chest near
the sternum, caused by the reflux of acidic
stomach fluids that enter the lower end of the
esophagus.
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Acid regurgitation- To cause to pour back,
especially to cast up (partially digested food).
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Excessive belching-
To expel gas noisily
from the stomach through the mouth; burp
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Dysphasia-
Inability to speak words which one has in mind or
to think of correct words, or inability to
understand spoken or written words
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Sour taste in the mouth -
Having a taste
characteristic of that produced by acids; sharp,
tart, or tangy.
- Noncardiac
chest pain - pains that mimic a heart attack
but caused by reflux
Possible other
symptoms of Gerd
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Chronic sore throat
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Laryngitis
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Inflammation of the gums and erosion of enamel of
the teeth
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Hoarseness in the morning
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Bad breath
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Chronic, non-allergic/non-seasonal asthma,
coughing, wheezing
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Nocturnal choking
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Children have slightly different symptoms of
GERD. A child suffering from anemia, failure
to gain weight, or respiratory problems must
be examined by a doctor. These symptoms
could be linked to GERD.
Severe symptoms of GERD in children may
include:
- Chronic coughing
- Frequent infections
- Wheezing
- Gasping while asleep
- Frequent vomiting
- Frequent burping during feeding
There are several treatment options
available for symptoms of GERD that are
dependent on the severity of the condition.
These include over-the-counter antacids,
prescription drugs, natural remedies and
surgery. Antacids for GERD may occasionally
cause constipation, diarrhea, increased
thirst and stomach cramps.
There are natural remedies available that
not only alleviate the symptoms but also
heal the body. According to the publication
Prescription for Nutritional Healing
specific nutrients helpful with symptoms of
GERD include calcium, magnesium, and
potassium, which have an alkalizing effect
that binds up stomach acid. The book also
suggests different herbs such as Aloe Vera,
which aids in healing of the intestinal
tract, and Chamomile to relieve esophageal
irritation.
Växa's Buffer-pH+
not only contains alkalizing ingredients but
also aloe vera and chamomile.
In conjunction to
Buffer-pH+, try Växa's
Digestin,
a homeopathic medicinal that has the
specific ingredients mentioned above along
with papaya leaf, peppermint leaf, ginger
root,
digestive enzymes, etc. All these
ingredients are known to relieve symptoms of
GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) and
help with digestion.
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