Common Triggers of GERD and How to Avoid Them

According to a research study published in the National Library of Medicine, GERD is a gastrointestinal disorder affecting as many as 20 percent of Americans. Its symptoms are often classified as minor annoyances for most patients, but in serious cases, it can cause additional issues, such as the deterioration of the lining of the esophagus. You'll learn more about GERD triggers and how to avoid flare-ups when you visit Waco Gastroenterology Associates in Waco, TX.

What is GERD?

GERD, an acronym for gastroesophageal reflux disease, is a condition that causes food and acid to regurgitate into the esophagus, throat, and mouth. It is often called heartburn or acid reflux. Symptoms often happen right after eating or drinking. When GERD is advanced, it can cause patients to vomit very soon after eating meals.

GERD Triggers

Certain types of foods and lifestyle choices can trigger GERD symptoms. Even mental health issues could contribute to acid reflux since the digestive system is often called the “second brain” (the enteric nervous system). Common GERD triggers include:

• Eating heavily spiced foods and citrus and drinking a lot of soda or alcoholic beverages are also good options.
• Eating too much at mealtime.
• Pregnancy.
• Obesity.
• Medications, including NSAIDs and certain types of blood pressure drugs.
• Severe stress or anxiety.

Tips to Avoid GERD

Adopting new dietary choices, eating smaller meals throughout the day, and focusing on stress relief techniques can help reduce the occurrence and frequency of GERD symptoms. The best way to start treating chronic GERD is to be evaluated by a Waco, TX, gastroenterologist. Treatment options will likely include prescription antacids, proton pump inhibitors, histamine blockers, and an endoscopy test to check the condition of the upper digestive tract. Surgery is also available for patients who have chronic GERD that doesn’t respond to traditional treatment options.

Help Managing GERD

If your GERD symptoms have begun interfering with your ability to eat normally and experience comfortable digestion, seek treatment options with a gastroenterologist at Waco Gastroenterology Associates in Waco, TX. Call (254) 537-0911 today to schedule a checkup, testing and treatment.