LATEST ARTICLES
- (
) PAT GIBSON: Reflux disorder related to cancer
Acid reflux is a very common problem affecting 20-40 percent of all Americans. In recent years, treatment was simple: Just take a pill, and you feel better. New issues have emerged that require a more comprehensive approach, such as that offered through the Heartburn Treatment Center of West Texas at San Angelo Community Medical Center. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) is typically referred to as heartburn or acid reflux. GERD is caused when the valve between the swallowing tube (esophagus) and stomach malfunctions. This valve, called the lower esophageal sphincter is essentially too loose in most patients with GERD. The malfunctioning valve allows acid and stomach contents to back up into the esophagus. Patients notice this back up as burning (from the acid) and regurgitation (bitter liquid in the back of the throat). More>> - (
) LifeCoach: Our experts answer questions
A: Gastroesophageal reflux disease (Gerd) or acid reflux disease occurs when the valve which separates the stomach and the tube leading into it (the oesophagus), does not close properly and allows acid from the stomach to back up into the oesophagus causing the burning sensation known as heartburn. Avoid trigger foods such as spicy meals, high fat or acidic foods (such as citrus fruits and tomatoes), caffeine and chocolate. Alcohol and excessive amounts of vitamin C from supplements can also stimulate gastric acid secretion, making symptoms worse, as do fizzy drinks. Also avoid large meals, especially at bedtime: don’t lie down for an hour after meals and try not to eat or drink for two to three hours before going to bed. It is better to have smaller meals throughout the day and to eat slowly. More>> - (
) Self help for the treatment of heartburn
Extra pounds increase pressure on the stomach and can push acid into the esophagus. Also avoid tight belts and waistbands.If you keep having acid reflux during your sleep, elevate the head of your bed or place a wedge under your upper body. (You can buy one at a bedding store, maternity shop or medical supply store.) Sleeping on an incline will prevent gastric acids from rising up. But don't make the mistake of relying on extra pillows—they elevate only your head and may even make things worse by putting pressure on your stomach. Most people with GERD have mild symptoms that clear up in response to these simple measures. Over-the-counter antacids and pills that cut down on acid production can also help. But if these measures don't take care of the problem, be sure to see your doctor. He or she will review your medical history and come up with a program to put out heartburn's fire. More>> - (
) For some women, pregnancy is a grave struggle
With the fetus crowding my stomach, I started getting acid reflux, a common problem in pregnancy, which reaccelerated my vomiting. As the weeks went by, the condition worsened. So at 38 weeks, I checked into Mount Sinai to induce labor.I threw up for the last time about 20 minutes before the arrival of my son, at 2:54 a.m. July 25. He weighed 5 pounds 12 ounces and was in excellent health. I held him, he looked up at me and the euphoria from December came rushing back. I didn’t think about the months in between. The nausea vanished almost immediately.That morning, a nurse who had taken care of me during my hospitalizations popped in and asked if I felt like breakfast. It was eggs and sausages, pancakes, cereal and fruit salad. I planned to save half for Archie, who had fallen asleep on a pullout chair. More>>