7% of people suffer from it daily: And yet almost no one knows what really helps

You know the drill. You expect the satisfaction of a full belly after a meal and instead you feel heartburn, it’s hard and ultimately you’d rather throw up the contents of your stomach. If this situation recurs on a regular basis, you should be alert, as it may be a disease.

The silent companion of modern times

Gastric reflux, or gastroesophageal reflux disease, is a problem of our time. According to statistics, about 7% of people worldwide suffer from it every day. However, many of them do not even know that they are affected by this disease, so they try to treat it with medicines and heartburn products.

What is actually happening in the body

Gastroesophageal reflux disease occurs when stomach acid moves from the stomach into the esophagus. The name reflux or acid reflux is used for short. Symptoms include heartburn that occurs after eating and usually worsens during the night or while lying down. There is also chest pressure, difficulty swallowing, a lump in the throat, vomiting, bloating, belching, various digestive problems and in some cases hoarseness or coughing.

As a result of the disease, the function of the lower oesophageal sphincter, which allows the passage of food into the stomach, is weakened. If this muscle does not close properly, the contents of the stomach may return to the oesophagus. If the causes are ignored or poorly treated for a long time, the esophagus can even be damaged.

Several typical factors help to trigger reflux. It is caused by heavy, fatty and spicy foods, alcohol, smoking, obesity, pregnancy, diabetes, caffeine, chocolate or age over 50. Especially avoid foods and drinks that aggravate esophageal irritation.

What really helps

Changing your lifestyle and diet is an effective way to relieve and get rid of reflux symptoms. Incorporate smaller portions into your eating habits and avoid eating 2 to 3 hours before bedtime while staying upright while eating to prevent reflux. If you are overweight, try to reduce your weight at least a little. Also try to change your sleeping position, ideally sleeping on your left side. Changes usually occur after a few weeks.

Over-the-counter antacids can be bought to treat reflux and are taken after meals and at bedtime. However, these medications may have side effects such as diarrhea or constipation and provide short-term relief. In contrast, H2-receptor blockers and proton pump inhibitors have a longer-term effect.

Chinese medicine treatment

Chinese medicine takes a beneficial stance in the treatment of reflux, which does not only target the elimination of symptoms, but looks for the roots of the disease. This treatment combines herbs, medicinal mushrooms, acupuncture and dietary modification. According to the study, the conventional treatment approach is much more effective when combined with Chinese medicine.

Summary

If gastric reflux becomes chronic, you should not ignore the problem. It significantly affects your daily life and detracts from its quality. If you experience any of the symptoms mentioned above, seek a solution or do not hesitate to see a doctor.