TEMPO.CO, Jakarta – Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease atau GERD caused by failure of relaxation of the Lower Esophageal Sphincter (LES) or the ring-shaped muscle in charge of regulating the process of opening and closing the door or valve of the esophagus that connects the lower esophagus to the stomach.
Normally this valve will close the esophagus after the food descends into the esophagus stomach. When this muscle is weak this valve will remain open so that stomach acid will rise back up into the esophagus.
Reporting from the radioedukasi.kemdikbud.go.id page, GERD or stomach acid can occur due to consuming food and drinks such as coffee, alcohol, chocolate, fried foods, and tomato sauce.
Even eating excessive portions three hours before bedtime and taking certain drugs such as aspirin are also the cause.
The symptoms of GERD such as ulcers, regurgitation, chest pain, difficulty swallowing, frequent belching, pain when swallowing, nausea, and vomiting. And if your symptoms get worse after eating, bending over or lying down could indicate you have GERD.
Quoted from the nm.org page, everyone can experience different triggers. Your health care professional may suggest certain lifestyle changes to treat this health problem.
Lifestyle changes such as avoiding high-fat or spicy foods, including reducing consumption of citrus fruits, mint flavoring, alcohol, and coffee. Because these foods can be irritating esophagus or make acid reflux more likely by affecting the lower esophageal sphincter.
RAUDATUL ADAWIYAH NASUTION
Also read: The Long Term Dangers of GERD when Neglected
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