Understanding the Causes and Symptoms of GERD: A Comprehensive Guide

Understanding the Causes and Symptoms of GERD: A Comprehensive Guide
4 min read
02 November 2023

Understanding GERD

The chronic illness known as GERD is typified by the reflux of stomach acid into the oesophagus. Heartburn, regurgitation, chest pain, and an unpleasant taste in the mouth are some of the symptoms that may arise from it. Pregnancy raises the likelihood of GERD symptoms for a number of reasons. Heartburn is one of the serious symptom, if you face it consult with the best heartburn treatment in Coimbatore

1. Hormonal Changes: The lower oesophagal sphincter (LES), a muscle ring that divides the stomach from the oesophagus, may relax as a result of the hormone surge, especially progesterone. This relaxation may permit reflux of stomach acid into the oesophagus.

2. Increased Pressure: The expanding uterus puts pressure on the growing baby's stomach, which may cause the contents to push up into the oesophagus.

3. Dietary Changes: A lot of pregnant women go through dietary changes, such as eating bigger meals or new kinds of foods that might make their GERD symptoms worse.

1. Lifestyle Modifications for GERD

Diet:
Be mindful of what you're eating. Steer clear of foods high in fat, acidity, or spice since they might exacerbate symptoms. Rather, choose to eat small, frequent meals and concentrate on getting your fill from high-fibre foods like whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.

Posture: Keep your back straight when eating and for at least an hour after. This may lessen the chance of stomach acid refluxing into the oesophagus.

Refrain from Overeating: Consuming smaller meals helps ease the strain on the stomach and lower the chance of acid reflux.

2. Maintain Hydration

By consuming lots of water in between meals, stomach acid can be less likely to irritate the oesophagus.

3. Position of Sleep:

While you sleep, raise your upper body by using a wedge pillow or more pillows. This can lessen GERD symptoms at night by keeping stomach acid in the stomach. 

4. Pharmaceutical:

If changing your lifestyle on its own is ineffective, speak with your healthcare practitioner. They might suggest alginates, over-the-counter antacids, or prescription drugs that are thought to be safe to take while pregnant.

5. Use of Herbs:

Mild GERD symptoms may be alleviated by using certain herbal medicines, such as chamomile tea or ginger. However, before attempting any herbal therapies while pregnant, always get advice from your healthcare physician.


6. Stress Management:

Deep breathing, yoga, and meditation are examples of relaxation practises that can help reduce stress, which can worsen the symptoms of GERD.

7. Weight Management:

Maintaining a healthy weight during pregnancy can help reduce the severity of GERD symptoms.

8. Consult a Healthcare Provider:

If GERD symptoms are severe, persistent, or affecting your quality of life, it's crucial to consult a gerd specialist in Coimbatore. They can provide personalized guidance and treatment options that are safe for both you and your baby.

Conclusion

Although GERD during pregnancy can be difficult and uncomfortable, it is treatable with the appropriate care. Pregnant women can minimise GERD symptoms while putting their own and their unborn child's health and well-being first by changing their lifestyle, drinking plenty of water, and, if needed, exploring safe prescription alternatives. Never forget to seek individualised guidance and assistance from a healthcare professional during this critical juncture in your life. You may handle pregnancy with more comfort and peace of mind if you know what to do and take the appropriate precautions.

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Madhu 8
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