Acid Reflux & GERD
Acid Reflux
Did you know that more than 60 million Americans experience heartburn more than 1 time a month? Acid reflux is a condition where stomach contents flow back into the esophagus causing a burning sensation in the chest or throat. Symptoms can include regurgitation of sour or bitter liquid, difficulty swallowing, coughing wheezing and shortness of breath. In Chinese medicine we call it rebellious Qi and is caused from digestive stagnation.
GERD
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a more chronic and severe form of acid reflux. It can erode the mucosal tissue lining the upper gastrointestinal tract, potentially damaging the esophagus and the esophageal sphincter—a condition known as Barrett’s esophagus. While most people with GERD do not develop Barrett’s esophagus, approximately 15% are at risk.
In addition to acid reflux, other common symptoms of GERD include gingivitis, erosion of tooth enamel, and chronic bad breath (halitosis).
Silent reflux, or laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR), is another condition where stomach acid flows back up into the throat and voice box. This is common in individuals who frequently project their voices, such as singers and teachers. It is referred to as “silent” because it often lacks traditional symptoms like heartburn or indigestion. Instead, it may present as frequent throat clearing, hoarseness, post-nasal drip, a bitter taste in the mouth, or a sensation of a lump in the throat—described in Chinese medicine as “plum-pit Qi.”
Our Approach
Commonly we see patients that have already been prescribed medications for acid reflux and GERD. Proton pump inhibitors (PPI) like Omeprazole (prilosec) and H2 blockers Famotidine (pepcid) may help short term but long term can lead to common side effects like headache, abdominal pain, diarrhea, vomiting, severe nutrient deficiencies like B12, and iron. Less common but more severe side effects can be renal impairment, hepatic impairment, pancreatitis and fractures. These types of treatment frequently do not work as well as one hopes because as they do not treat the root cause.
Our wholistic approach is to identify the root cause of the symptoms. Reducing the inflammation and healing the mucosal tissue while addressing the root cause and optimize the digestive process. Individuals are often surprised when correcting the upper GI complaints eliminates lower GI concerns like gas and bloating.
Why did the acid reflux break up with its partner?
Because it just couldn't stomach the relationship anymore!
