1. Heartburn & GERD
(நெஞ்செரிச்சல் & எதுக்களிப்பு)
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
GERD occurs when stomach acid frequently flows back into the esophagus, causing heartburn, chest discomfort, and regurgitation. Lifestyle changes, medications, and sometimes surgery can help manage symptoms.
Definition
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) is a chronic digestive disorder where stomach acid, sometimes mixed with food, repeatedly flows back (refluxes) into the tube connecting your mouth and stomach (esophagus). The term Heartburn describes the primary symptom of GERD—a burning sensation in the chest, often rising from the stomach. This happens because the Lower Esophageal Sphincter (LES), a muscle valve that normally closes after food passes, is weak or relaxes improperly. Chronic reflux can irritate the esophageal lining, potentially leading to inflammation (esophagitis).
Causes
Weak or relaxed LES muscle, hiatal hernia, obesity, pregnancy, smoking, large meals, and certain foods (e.g., spicy, fatty, acidic, caffeine).
Symptoms
Burning chest pain (heartburn), sour or bitter-tasting fluid in the back of the throat (regurgitation), difficulty swallowing (dysphagia), chronic cough, or hoarseness.
Investigation
Endoscopy (to view the esophagus), pH Monitoring (measures acid levels in the esophagus), or Barium Swallow.
Allopathy Treatment
Antacids (quick relief), H2 Blockers (reduce acid production), Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs) (long-term acid reduction). Surgery (e.g., Fundoplication) for severe, non-responsive cases.
Ayush (Siddha/Ayurveda) Treatment:
Focus on balancing Pitta Dosha (Ayurveda) or excess Pitham (Siddha). Remedies like Amlaki (Indian Gooseberry), Yastimadhu (Licorice), and Avipattikar Churna. Emphasizes avoiding hot, spicy, and fermented foods
.Homeopathy Treatment
Individualized remedies like Nux Vomica (for overuse of stimulants/heavy meals), Arsenicum Album (burning pain, restless), or Robinia (intense sour eructations).
Yoga & Diet
Yoga: Gentle poses like Vajrasana (Thunderbolt Pose) after meals. Avoid inverted poses immediately after eating. Diet: Eat small, frequent meals. Avoid trigger foods (fatty, acidic, mint, chocolate). Do not lie down immediately after eating.