SUNDAY, Nov. 20 (HealthDay News) -- Holiday foods and feasts can
cause trouble for the estimated 30 million Americans with
gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), but there are things they
can do to be comfortable and symptom-free, experts advise.
GERD occurs when a faulty valve between the stomach and
esophagus allows stomach contents to flow back into the esophagus.
Symptoms of GERD include heartburn, acid regurgitation, wheezing,
sore throat and cough, according to the American Society for
Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ASGE).
Things that may trigger GERD symptoms include obesity,
pregnancy, smoking, excess alcohol use and consumption of fatty
foods, tomato-based products, chocolate, peppermint, citrus drinks
and coffee.
Answering "yes" to two or more of the following questions may
indicate that you have GERD, according to the ASGE:
- Do you frequently have one or more of the following: Discomfort
behind the breast bone that seems to move upward from the stomach?
A burning sensation in the back of your throat? A bitter acid taste
in your mouth?
- Do you often have these symptoms after a meal?
- Do you have heartburn or acid indigestion two or more times a
week?
- Do you find that antacids only provide temporary relief from
these symptoms?
- Are you taking prescription medication to treat heartburn but
still having symptoms?
If you suspect you have GERD, seek diagnosis and treatment so
that you can enjoy the holidays and every day, the ASGE said in a
society news release.
Treatment options include lifestyle modifications, medication,
surgery or a combination of methods.
National GERD Awareness Week is Nov. 20 to 26 in the United
States.
More information
The U.S. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney
Diseases has more about
GERD.