GERD?? who's that pokemon...

what is GERD?
it has nothing to do with steven gerard or gerard pique. it 's has been confirmed that i've GERD. so i wanna share with you about GERD.

What is GERD?

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a more serious form of gastroesophageal reflux (GER), which is common. GER occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) opens spontaneously, for varying periods of time, or does not close properly and stomach contents rise up into the esophagus. GER is also called acid reflux or acid regurgitation, because digestive juices—called acids—rise up with the food. The esophagus is the tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach. The LES is a ring of muscle at the bottom of the esophagus that acts like a valve between the esophagus and stomach.

When acid reflux occurs, food or fluid can be tasted in the back of the mouth. When refluxed stomach acid touches the lining of the esophagus it may cause a burning sensation in the chest or throat called heartburn or acid indigestion. Occasional GER is common and does not necessarily mean one has GERD. Persistent reflux that occurs more than twice a week is considered GERD, and it can eventually lead to more serious health problems. People of all ages can have GERD.

Symptoms

More common symptoms are:

• Feeling that food may be left trapped behind the breastbone
• Heartburn or a burning pain in the chest (under the breastbone)
  • Increased by bending, stooping, lying down, or eating
  • More likely or worse at night
  • Relieved by antacids
• Nausea after eating

Less common symptoms are:

• Cough or wheezing
• Difficulty swallowing
• Hiccups
• Hoarseness or change in voice
• Regurgitation of food
• Sore throat
  
  

  Treatment

  To prevent heartburn, avoid foods and beverages that may trigger your symptoms. For many people, these include:
  • Alcohol
  • Caffeine
  • Carbonated beverages
  • Chocolate
  • Citrus fruits and juices
  • Tomatoes
  • Tomato sauces
  • Spicy or fatty foods
  • Full-fat dairy products
  • Peppermint
  • Spearmint
  If other foods regularly give you heartburn, avoid those foods, too.
  Also, try the following changes to your eating habits and lifestyle:
  • Avoid bending over or exercising just after eating
  • Avoid garments or belts that fit tightly around your waist
  • Do not lie down with a full stomach. For example, avoid eating within 2 - 3 hours of bedtime.
  • Do not smoke.
  • Eat smaller meals.
  • Lose weight if you are overweight.
  • Reduce stress.
  • Sleep with your head raised about 6 inches. Do this by tilting your entire bed, or by using a wedge under your body, not just with normal pillows.
  Over-the-counter antacids may be used after meals and at bedtime, although they do not last very long. Common side effects of antacids include diarrhea or constipation.