GERD or chronic stomach acid is a disease that is currently often experienced not only by children but also adults. Often this disease is taken lightly even though if left alone it can have an impact on death. So what is GERD, what causes it, and how do you deal with it?
“Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or chronic stomach acid is a disease caused when increased stomach acid rises upward and causes various complaints such as a hot throat, burning chest, shortness of breath, and a sour taste in the mouth. GERD occurs when the stomach valve that should be closed remains open so stomach acid rises into the esophagus,” said dr. Ika Mariani Devi, Sp.PD on Instagram Live NGOPY (@bocahhandal.comofficial), Thursday (13/4/2023).
Causes of GERD
In Instagram live, Dr. Ika stated that GERD can be caused by several factors, including:
Obesity
Obesity is one of the causes of GERD. According to WHO, obesity is the accumulation of excess fat in the body which can eventually cause many health risks. “As a result of the accumulation of excess fat in the body, this can cause the stomach to be squeezed so that the capacity of the stomach is getting smaller and causes stomach acid to be pushed up and up into the esophagus.” said Dr. Ika
Pregnant
Pregnancy can be a cause for someone to get GERD. Pregnancy will cause the position of the stomach to be squeezed upwards and the stomach capacity will decrease. This is what causes stomach acid to be pushed up into the esophagus. Besides that, according to Dr. Ika, most pregnant women misperceive themselves in terms of eating patterns. Pregnant women think they have to eat for two, but the truth is eating small amounts but with high intensity.
Dietary habit
Diet can also be a cause of GERD. Quoted in Instagram live NGOPY (@bocahhandal.comofficial), Dr. Ika said that eating foods that are too oily and high in fat can be one of the triggers for GERD. In addition, consuming large amounts of coffee and chocolate can also trigger GERD.
Stress and Lack of Rest
According to WHO, Stress is a state of worry or mental tension caused by a difficult situation. “If stress is not treated properly, it can cause excessive anxiety and will affect the increase in stomach acid so that stomach acid will be pushed into the esophagus,” said Dr. Ika. Therefore, he added, it is important for us to set our mindset and rest time.
Tips to Avoid Recurrence of GERD
Without realizing it, GERD can be caused by various factors above. To reduce the recurrence of GERD, dr. Ika gave some tips as follows.
- Choose foods that are low in fat and not spicy for consumption.
- Avoid consuming coffee in excess
- When the stomach is empty, avoid consuming fruit that is sour or has high acidity
- Do not sleep or lie down immediately after eating. Do activities first after eating to prevent food from returning to the esophagus
- Eat slowly and choose foods that are light and easy to digest.
Following these tips can help us minimize the recurrence of GERD. Dr. Ika also stated that GERD can be cured by maintaining the patient’s diet and mindset. However, in some cases, GERD is caused by psychological problems, if it is not cured immediately, GERD will not heal either.
Find more information regarding GERD with Dr. Ika Mariani Devi on IG Live NGOPY, Click here.
