Gastroesaphageal+Reflux+(GERD)

//Western Diagnosis// reflux of gastric contents into esophagus

Etiology
1. incompetence of lower esophageal sphincter 2. hiatus hernia 3. increased abdominal pressure: obesity, pg, eating too much or too quickly

Signs & Symptoms
1. heartburn ---burning in epigastrium, substernal area ---can radiate to back, neck, both arms ---worse bending over or lying down 2. regurg of gastric contents into mouth

Complications
1. esophagitis 2. stricture 3. dysphagia

Diagnosis
1. history 2. x-ray 3. endoscopy 4. esophageal manometry: measures pressure at lower esophageal sphincter

Treatment
1. eat slowly 2. relax while eating 3. avoid coffee, alcohol, chocolate, fats, cigarettes, milk, tomato, food allergens 4. antacids 5. deglycyrrhizinated licorice root; aloe vera juice (1-2oz/day) - one of the best to protect the stomach lining 6. peppermint tea (Do NOT use!) 7. slippery elm bark powder - can also use marsh mallow (althea) 8. elevate head of bed 6 inches