A number of people have the same question when they hear the term “heartburn” what is GERD? They wonder if heartburn will develop into a more severe condition if they continue to have it on a regular basis. Unfortunately, this is one of the worst questions someone can ask when they are experiencing a heartburn episode.
You might well identify a certain reason for your pain (the burning sensation, that sudden five-alarm pepper), but if it occurs often enough – defined as two to three times a month, on average – it may be a sign of a much more serious medical condition known as gastroesophageal reflux disorder (GERD) which often leads to serious complications. While you can’t know exactly how often your heartburn occurs or if it will develop into GERD, there are some things you can do that may help to alleviate the symptoms and prevent it from getting out of control.
If you think GERD may be the cause of your heartburn, you can begin by taking any medications that you take to relieve your pain and symptoms. While your doctor may suggest that you stop taking certain medications (including pain medications and acid blockers), you may find that these medications only make the symptoms and pain worse. It is important to always be aware of what medications you are taking and check with your doctor at least twice a year to make sure that the medications are still appropriate for you to take.
If GERD has been diagnosed, it is important that you learn about the many lifestyle changes you can make that will help you control your heartburn symptoms. Some of the things you can do include making changes in your diet and exercise habits. One way to learn more about your GERD is to speak with your doctor. You might be able to learn about other people who have the same problem and ask them about what they did that helped them control their heartburn.
One other thing you can do is to ensure that you are getting the proper amount of rest and adequate fluids every day. Many people who suffer from GERD tend to eat more than they need and this causes them to drink a lot of fluid, which helps them to feel fuller. And eliminates the acid reflux, which is so common in people with this condition.
Finally, remember that it is important to get plenty of sleep on a regular basis. Losing weight can also help to reduce the amount of GERD you have and also may help to prevent GERD from developing.
