What is GERD?
What is GERD – and what causes it? GERD (gastro-esophageal reflux disease), also known as acid reflux disease, occurs when two specific medical conditions exist together.
The first contributing cause or condition is a “reverse” flow of stomach contents into the gullet or esophagus. The second condition to bring about acid reflux disease is a malfunction of the ring of muscle, or sphincter, at the lower end of the esophagus. This lower-esophageal sphincter (LES) acts as a valve between the stomach and the esophagus.
In the case of acid reflux disease, the LES does not properly close, which causes the stomach contents to splash up into the esophagus. The coexistence of these two conditions results in a burning sensation in the throat or chest, commonly known as heartburn. It’s caused by the refluxed contents of the stomach coming into contact with the lining of the esophagus.
Since anyone – including healthy individuals – can experience mild heartburn occasionally, it doesn’t necessarily indicate that the person has GERD.
Sufferers usually experience GERD as a persistent heartburn (at least twice a week). Apart from burning chest pains, some may also experience morning hoarseness or voice changes, sinusitis, coughing, chronic earache or difficulty swallowing (especially lumpy foods).
If one does not treat acid reflux disease, it could lead to serious health complications. Examples of these are ulcers, bleeding, esophageal spasms and the formation of strictures. Stomach acid reaching the upper esophagus and trachea can give rise to a number of serious conditions, such as sinusitis, asthma and pneumonia.
Lastly, some patients may develop “Barrett’s esophagus“. This is a condition where cells that line the lower part of the esophagus develop an abnormal shape and color. This condition is considered a precursor to esophageal adenocarcinoma, an often fatal form of cancer, especially in older people.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease treatment can take one of three forms: surgery, medical therapy and holistic therapy. The latter includes nutritional and lifestyle adjustments and the consumption of specific herbal supplements.
One should be very careful when considering surgery as it could aggravate underlying conditions, such as esophageal motility disorder and stricture. GERD medical treatments include medications such as proton-pump inhibitors (PPIs) and H2 receptor blockers. While one can treat acid reflux by taking such medications, remember that the results may be just temporary. Some GERD medications could also cause serious side effects.
From a holistic perspective, acid reflux disease is a sign that the body is seriously out of balance internally, a situation that needs to be rectified.
It is strongly recommended, therefore, that alternative treatments, such as herbal and homeopathic remedies, together with diet and lifestyle changes, should become part of a holistic regimen for GERD sufferers.
How to Cure GERD Permanently
This article is based on the book, “Heartburn No More” by Jeff Martin. Jeff is an author, researcher, nutritionist and health consultant who has dedicated his life to creating the ultimate acid reflux solution. It’s guaranteed to permanently reverse the root cause of heartburn and acid reflux and naturally and dramatically improve the overall quality of your life, without the use of prescription medication and without any surgical procedures. Learn more by visiting his website: