Acid Relfux/GERD

GERD stands for gastroesophageal reflux disease and is a condition where stomach acid is thrown up, leaving a burning/uncomfortable sensation in the esophagus and mouth. Acid reflux can occasionally happen due to improper eating habits, laying down quickly after eating, etc. However, when continuously, we refer to it as GERD.

Symptoms:

1. Burning sensations
2. Upper abdominal pain
3. Chest pain/tightness
4. Food/liquid acid rising upwards to the esophagus and mouth
5. Inability to swallow normally

Note: another key symptom is worsening asthma for those already with asthma.

Causes:

1. Frequent over-eating
2. Eating late at night
3. Low stomach acidity
4. Medications such aspirin
5. Caffeinated and/or carbonated drinks

Unani Tibb's understanding

Unani Tibb views GERD as a weakness of the stomach - its inability to retain the stomach continents (food/digestive juices) as it should. The stomach becomes weak due to an imbalance of the stomach temperament. The stomach is naturally hot and dry - when it becomes cold, moist, too hot, or too dry, that is when stomach weakness occurs. This, however, can easily be remedied with the correct diet.

Things that would help:

1. Drinking a large glass of cool water or milk to help the burning sensation
2. Don't lie down after eating
3. Wear loose, comfortable clothing
4. Avoid caffeinated and carbonated drinks
5. Avoid fried food
6. Avoid late-night meals/snacks
7. Practice deep, slow breathing
8. Eat slowly and make sure the food is well chewed

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