Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), commonly known as acid reflux, is a condition where the stomach contents regularly re enter the esophagus resulting in a burning sensation. While many people may experience acid reflux at some time in their life, most people don’t know some of the causes, effects, and treatments of GERD.
Here are 5 facts about GERD:
- Peppermint can soothe your stomach but may contribute to GERD
It’s widely thought that peppermint soothes an upset stomach. While peppermint works to relax the stomach muscles, relieving any pain due to stomach cramps or IBS, it also relaxes the lower esophageal sphincter. The lower esophageal sphincter is important because it keeps stomach acid in the stomach, preventing leakage back into the esophagus. Thus when this sphincter is relaxed by peppermint, it loses some functionality and results in acid reflux. - Foods aren’t the sole cause of GERD
While eating a spicy meal may increase your GERD symptoms, food is not the only thing that can contribute to heartburn. A common cause of GERD is a hiatal hernia. A hiatal hernia occurs when the diaphragm becomes weak and parts of the stomach and esophagus protrude through the hiatus (opening of the diaphragm) into the chest area. Additionally, smoking can result in GERD because tobacco smoke can relax the muscles of the lower esophageal sphincter causing acid reflux. Finally, certain medications including asthma medications, calcium channel blockers, antihistamines, sedatives, antidepressants, etc. may contribute to GERD. So always make sure to discuss taking these medications with your physician. - The way you sleep can affect your GERD
Did you know that sleeping on your stomach, back, or right side can contribute to heartburn? Studies have found that shifting from the right side to the left while sleeping will help to decrease symptoms of GERD at night. Additionally, sleeping on a slight incline may help to keep your stomach acid from reentering the esophagus. Also, always ensure to resist eating 3 hours before bed to avoid increasing your chances of heartburn from sleeping on a full stomach. - Acid reflux can be harmful to your teeth
As previously mentioned, GERD causes the acid in your stomach to reenter the esophagus and potentially travel back into your mouth. When this occurs consistently, as in people with GERD, the acid can wear down your teeth causing tooth erosion. Tooth erosion is permanent and can cause pain, sensitivity, yellowing, increased risk of cavities, and potentially complete tooth loss. Thus it is important to discuss options with your physician on how to treat your GERD. - Wearing loose clothes can help soothe your GERD
It’s no secret that tight clothes can be uncomfortable. If you suffer from GERD, it’s likely even more discomforting because tight clothes can contribute to acid reflux. Tight-fitting pants or shirts can restrict your abdomen and put pressure on your stomach causing it to compress. If your stomach is compressed it can force your stomach acid back into the esophagus. Thus wearing loose fitting clothes or un-notching your belt, may help to relieve symptoms of GERD.
If you are suffering from GERD or think you may be showing symptoms, contact Dr. Ahmad to find out what you can do to treat it!
Dr. Arif Ahmad specializes in laparoscopic robotic surgery and has performed over 2,000 laparoscopic robotic surgeries. He is renowned in the Long Island area for his impeccable track record of safety and success.
