GERD Treatment Methods Can Vary – Find Out More Here!

GERD treatment methods are often sought after, as this condition is quite common among Indonesians. So, how many types of treatments are available for GERD sufferers?

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) has become a common health concern, especially among teenagers and young adults. This condition, often caused by lifestyle habits, can range from mild to severe symptoms. If left untreated, GERD can lead to serious complications like esophagitis, esophageal strictures, and even an increased risk of esophageal cancer.

Therefore, understanding how to treat GERD is crucial in preventing it from worsening. Treatment for GERD can be approached in several ways, including lifestyle changes, medications, and medical procedures for more severe cases. Here are some effective ways to treat GERD that GERD sufferers should know.

1. Lifestyle Changes

The first method of treating GERD is by adopting healthy lifestyle habits that can reduce its symptoms. These lifestyle changes should be made regularly for optimal results. Here are a few steps you can take:

Eating Habits: It’s important to eat smaller meals more frequently and avoid large meals at once. Snacking on healthy foods like fruits, fruit juices, or salads can help keep the stomach full and prevent acid reflux.
Maintaining Ideal Weight: Regular exercise, at least twice a week, is recommended to maintain a healthy weight and reduce the risk of GERD symptoms. Exercise also helps control stress, which can worsen GERD by increasing stomach acid production. Relaxation techniques like meditation, yoga, light exercise, and deep breathing can also help manage stress.
Avoid Tight Clothing: Wearing tight clothing, especially around the abdomen, can increase pressure on the stomach and make acid reflux more likely. Opt for loose, comfortable clothing to reduce pressure on your stomach.

2. Medication Usage

If lifestyle changes are not enough, medications can provide relief. For individuals who frequently experience GERD flare-ups, it’s important to follow a doctor’s prescription for medication. Here are some common medications used to treat GERD:

Antacids: These work by neutralizing stomach acid quickly. Common examples include magnesium hydroxide and aluminum hydroxide. Antacids are effective for short-term relief but don’t address the underlying cause of reflux. Side effects may include diarrhea (from magnesium) or constipation (from aluminum). Long-term use without a doctor’s guidance can disrupt the body’s mineral balance.
H2-Receptor Blockers: These drugs inhibit histamine receptors in the stomach’s parietal cells, which are responsible for producing stomach acid. Examples include ranitidine, famotidine, nizatidine, and cimetidine. These medications reduce acid production, helping to protect the esophagus from acid irritation. H2-receptor blockers are typically used for medium-term GERD management, especially when Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs) are not suitable. Side effects may include headaches, diarrhea, dizziness, or rare liver or kidney dysfunction.
Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs): PPIs are more effective than H2-receptor blockers and work by blocking proton pump enzymes responsible for acid production in the stomach. Common PPIs include omeprazole, lansoprazole, esomeprazole, pantoprazole, and rabeprazole. They are often prescribed for long-term GERD management. Side effects may include headaches, diarrhea, nausea, constipation, and, with prolonged use, increased risk of osteoporosis, vitamin B12 deficiency, and digestive tract infections. PPIs should be used under a doctor's supervision.

3. Medical and Surgical Therapies

If lifestyle changes and medications do not provide sufficient relief, medical procedures may be considered for treating GERD. Some severe cases of GERD require more advanced interventions:

Endoscopy: An endoscopic procedure involves inserting a flexible tube with a small camera (endoscope) into the esophagus to examine the mucosal lining. This can help diagnose and treat GERD that does not respond to conventional treatments. Techniques like radiofrequency therapy (Stretta procedure) can strengthen the Lower Esophageal Sphincter (LES) with heat energy, and polymer injections can improve LES resistance.
Fundoplication: This surgical procedure strengthens the LES by wrapping the top part of the stomach (fundus) around the lower esophagus. This helps prevent acid reflux, especially for patients whose GERD does not respond to medication. Nissen fundoplication is the most common method, where the fundus is fully wrapped around the esophagus. This procedure can be performed laparoscopically for quicker recovery.
LINX Device: The LINX device is a small ring made of magnetic beads that is placed around the LES through laparoscopy. It allows food to pass into the stomach but prevents stomach acid from moving back into the esophagus. The LINX device is an alternative for patients who are not candidates for fundoplication or those with chronic GERD unresponsive to conventional treatments. This procedure is minimally invasive with quicker recovery and lower risk of complications compared to major surgery.
Bariatric Surgery: For obese patients suffering from severe GERD, bariatric surgery options like gastric bypass or sleeve gastrectomy may be considered. Gastric bypass reduces stomach size and reroutes the digestive tract, reducing pressure on the stomach and preventing acid reflux. Sleeve gastrectomy removes most of the stomach, reducing acid production and significantly helping with weight loss. Bariatric surgery also offers long-term benefits for controlling diabetes and hypertension.

4. Natural Remedies for GERD

Natural treatments can be an effective way to manage GERD symptoms, especially for initial relief or as a complementary approach alongside other treatments. Here are some natural remedies to try:

Aloe Vera: Aloe vera has anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe irritation in the esophagus caused by stomach acid. Aloe vera gel can be consumed in juice form to reduce inflammation and coat the stomach lining, reducing the chances of acid reflux.
Ginger: Ginger is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and can help relieve digestive discomfort, including GERD. Drinking ginger tea or adding fresh ginger to your meals can help reduce stomach acid production and alleviate nausea and bloating.
Honey: Honey has antibacterial properties and can help coat the esophagus, reducing irritation from stomach acid. Consuming a tablespoon of pure honey before bed or mixing it with warm water can help relieve GERD symptoms and provide a soothing effect for the stomach.
Chamomile Tea: Chamomile tea has a calming effect that can reduce stress and lower stomach acid production. Drinking chamomile tea before bed can improve sleep quality and reduce the likelihood of nighttime acid reflux.
Warm Water with Lemon: Although lemon is acidic, when consumed in small amounts mixed with warm water, it can help balance the stomach’s pH and alleviate GERD symptoms. This drink may also stimulate the production of mucus in the stomach lining, helping to reduce irritation from stomach acid.

Conclusion

GERD is a condition that requires careful attention, as it can have a long-term negative impact on health if left untreated. There are various ways to treat GERD, including lifestyle changes, medications, medical therapies, and surgery if necessary. Natural remedies can also help alleviate symptoms and complement conventional treatments effectively.

If you are looking for personalized GERD treatment, you can consult or undergo a medical check-up at IHH Healthcare Malaysia. Consultations can be done online or in person, and the hospital offers various treatment options that can help alleviate GERD symptoms. Don’t wait—schedule your check-up today at IHH Healthcare Malaysia.