Some glands in the stomach and duodenum – a segment of the intestine – secrete mucus to protect the lining of the digestive tract from stomach acid. If the balance breaks down, the gastric juices can begin to eat into the lining of the stomach or intestinal wall.
Over time, this corrosion can lead to an ulcer.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), however, is different from an ulcer and is a disorder in which the contents of the stomach or small intestine move back into the esophagus.
Often, this regurgitating action is called reflux. It can cause the symptoms commonly known as “heartburn”.
GERD may eventually harm the inner lining of the esophagus, leading to inflammatory ulcers.
It may also occur in infants and young children, but it is generally mild.
GERD symptoms
The symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease include chest pain, belching, nausea and vomiting, chronic cough, wheezing, heartburn, a sore throat, and difficulty in swallowing and the regurgitation of food.
Heartburn is characterised by a burning sensation in the middle of the chest. This is caused by nerve stimulation resulting from acid reflux into the oesophagus.
Excessive salivation may be another symptom of GERD.
ALSO READ: Why a short left road trip with an electric car can save you money
Reflux is generally diagnosed by the symptoms that it presents. Doctors also look into diet, medications taken, and lifestyle.
An endoscope – a thin, flexible tube with a camera and light used to inspect the inside of the body – may locate signs of reflux and ulcers.
How to relieve symptoms
Aloe vera juice acts as an anti-inflammatory and offers relief by healing the stomach lining. It also reduces stomach acid secretions. Furthermore, it aids in the prevention of internal bleeding.
This soothing juice has long used in folk medicine to relieve heartburn and ulcers. While there is very little substantive evidence to support these internal uses, some research has shown promising results.
In addition, vitamin A helps protect the lining of the stomach and small intestine.
This may be beneficial in healing ulcers and preventing symptoms such as GERD. Food that is rich in vitamin A include liver, eggs, butter, fish liver oils, carrots, tomatoes, spinach, broccoli, and cabbage.
Eat a well-balanced diet which is rich in fibre and stop smoking, as this may increase acid secretion and prevent the pancreas from secreting enzymes that protect the intestinal lining.
Avoid aspirin-based products and foods that may trigger heartburn. Keep a food journal and monitor your body’s reactions to the various foods that you eat.
This approach helps you eliminate them from your diet if they cause heartburn and indigestion. Reduce alcohol intake, and never drink on an empty stomach.
