Latest news with #GastroesophagealRefluxDisease
The Hindu
9 hours ago
- Health
- The Hindu
Early diagnosis, simple lifestyle changes can prevent GERD complications: experts
Doctors stressed the need for early diagnosis and simple lifestyle changes to prevent further complications on GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease), a digestive disorder, at a webinar 'GERD-free Living: From Burn to Balance' on Sunday. The discussion was the final episode of the 15-part webinar series under the 'Healthy India Happy India initiative' by Naruvi Hospitals in collaboration with The Hindu. A panel of gastroenterologists, including E. Rabindranath and Jacob Raja A.S., both consultants at Naruvi Hospitals, Vellore, along with A.C. Arun, clinical lead, Gastroenterology at Lily Mission Hospital, Madurai, spoke on common concerns over GERD. Explaining the digestive system and the role of esophageal sphincter, Dr. Jacob said that the sphincter acts as the gateway between the lower esophagus and the stomach to prevent regurgitation. 'When the Gastroesophageal Reflux (GER) happens multiple times in a week impacting quality of life, work and sleep and causes symptoms such as persistent heart burn, chest pain, trouble in swallowing, then it can turn into a chronic medical condition called the GERD and requires treatment,' he said. Dr. Jacob said the global burden of GERD was quite high — one in every five individuals — with Europe, North America and parts of Asia reporting high numbers of cases. In comparison, India reports fewer cases, but its prevalence is increasing in young adults given their unhealthy lifestyle and eating habits. Speaking on diagnosis, lifestyle changes and management of GERD, Dr. Rabindranath advised people to quit smoking and alcohol consumption and avoid spicy and fatty foods and late night meals. He also advised against sedentary lifestyle and stress and for practising intake portion control and weight management. 'GERD mimics include heart issues, esophageal disorders, stomach issues, anxiety episodes, and panic attacks; therefore, medical consultation is important,' he added. Sharing tips to manage GERD, he advised 'elevating the head during sleep, keeping a gap of three to four hours between dinner and sleep, sleeping on the left side and wearing loose clothes while exercising'. Focusing on treatment, Dr. Arun spoke on how endoscopy helps to identify the complications and anatomical damage due to reflux episodes. 'Leaving GERD symptoms untreated could lead to esophageal ulcers and strictures making it difficult to swallow food, vomiting of blood and pre-cancerous condition. Minor surgeries, medication and endoscopic procedures help in arresting the progress of the disease,' he said.
Hans India
a day ago
- Health
- Hans India
Natural Ways to Ease Acid Reflux Without Medication
Acid reflux, commonly referred to as heartburn, is a widespread digestive issue marked by a burning sensation in the chest or throat. This happens when stomach acid flows back into the oesophagus, causing discomfort. While occasional episodes are normal, frequent reflux can signal a chronic condition called GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease). Although medications and antacids are readily available, many are turning to natural alternatives that are not only effective but come with fewer side effects. These remedies help restore digestive balance by calming the stomach, neutralising excess acid, and supporting smoother digestion. If you're wondering how to manage acid reflux naturally, here are eight tried-and-tested home remedies that bring quick and lasting relief: 1. Cold Milk Plain cold milk can act like a natural antacid by soothing the stomach lining and neutralizing excess acid. For best results, drink it slowly after meals or during nighttime reflux episodes. Avoid adding sugar or flavorings. 2. Bananas A naturally alkaline fruit, bananas help form a protective layer inside the stomach. Rich in potassium and fibre, they help stabilize pH levels and prevent heartburn. Eating one ripe banana daily can significantly ease digestive discomfort. 3. Cloves Cloves stimulate the production of saliva, which helps neutralize stomach acid. Thanks to their carminative properties, they're effective in relieving digestive issues. You can chew a clove after meals or steep it in hot water to make a soothing tea. 4. Coconut Water Naturally alkaline and hydrating, coconut water helps balance your body's pH levels and cools the digestive tract. A glass on an empty stomach or after meals helps alleviate acidity, bloating, and indigestion—especially helpful during warmer months. 5. Apple Cider Vinegar Though acidic by nature, when diluted properly, apple cider vinegar can enhance digestion and curb acid reflux symptoms. Mix one tablespoon in a glass of water and drink it about 20 minutes before meals for optimal results. 6. Aloe Vera Juice Aloe vera is widely known for its soothing, anti-inflammatory properties. Drinking a small amount of unsweetened aloe vera juice before meals can calm the stomach lining, reduce acid irritation, and ease symptoms such as bloating and heartburn. 7. Ginger Tea Ginger contains compounds that reduce inflammation and promote digestion. A simple ginger tea made by boiling fresh slices in water offers quick relief. Sip it slowly before or after meals to help control acid levels and reduce reflux. 8. Fennel Seeds Fennel is packed with natural compounds that relax the muscles of the gastrointestinal system. Chewing a teaspoon of fennel seeds after meals promotes digestion and prevents gas and acid buildup. Fennel tea is another gentle, effective option. These home remedies are safe, accessible, and offer a holistic approach to managing acid reflux. However, if symptoms persist or worsen, it's important to consult a healthcare provider for proper evaluation and treatment.
The Hindu
2 days ago
- Health
- The Hindu
Naruvi Hospitals, The Hindu to jointly host webinar on management of GERD
Naruvi Hospitals, Vellore, in association with The Hindu, is presenting a webinar on 'GERD-Free Living: From Burn to Balance', at 11.30 a.m. on July 20. This is a part of the 'Healthy India, Happy India' webinar series — a 15-part initiative on the theme of 'Prevent Illness, Promote Wellness'. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) is an increasingly common lifestyle disorder that affects individuals across all age groups. This webinar aims to raise awareness of GERD by addressing its early symptoms, methods of accurate diagnosis, available treatment options, and sustainable lifestyle changes to effectively manage and prevent the condition. This 15th session in the series brings together a panel of doctors who will share their insights on GERD: E. Rabindranath, consultant gastroenterologist, Naruvi Hospitals, Vellore will speak on 'Diagnosis, Lifestyle Changes and Managing GERD', while Jacob Raja A. S, consultant gastroenterologist, consultant in infectious diseases, Naruvi Hospitals, Vellore will speak on 'Introduction and Symptomatology of GERD'. A. C. Arun, clinical lead, gastroenterology, Lily Mission Hospital, Madurai, will elaborate on the 'Treatment of Refractory GERD'. Soma Basu, Senior Deputy Editor, The Hindu will moderate the session. E-certificates will be issued to all those who register for the webinar. To register, visit or scan the QR code.
Yahoo
4 days ago
- Health
- Yahoo
Woman, 30, Thought Her Heartburn Was Caused by Using Weight-Loss Injections. It Turned Out to Be Aggressive Stomach Cancer
NEED TO KNOW Chloe Stirling recalled how seeking medical help for heartburn led to her being diagnosed with an aggressive form of stomach cancer in a now-viral TikTok video The NHS nurse, now 30, initially thought the symptom was caused by her diet, but it worsened once she began to use weight-loss injections "The typical symptoms that you see for stomach cancer, I had none of them,' Stirling said, after revealing she didn't lose weight or have blood in her stoolsA British woman has had her stomach removed after being diagnosed with an aggressive form of cancer at the age of 28. While updating TikTok followers on her health in a recent video, Chloe Stirling recalled the one symptom that she had before she was diagnosed with signet ring cell adenocarcinoma in March 2024. The NHS nurse, now 30, said she had been experiencing intermittent heartburn for around a year, which she initially thought was triggered by eating greasy food and drinking alcohol. However, the symptom worsened after she was prescribed weight loss injections in November 2023. 'I didn't have any other symptoms apart from that,' Stirling said of her heartburn, before adding, 'I wasn't losing weight, I wasn't anemic, I didn't have any blood in my stools or anything like that. I wasn't vomiting, and my appetite was brilliant. 'The typical symptoms that you see for stomach cancer, I had none of them,' she said. Heartburn is a common side effect of using weight loss injections. According to WebMD, 1 in 50 people involved in a Mounjaro clinical trial experienced heartburn, acid reflux, or GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease). Stirling said her symptoms largely went away after she stopped taking weight-loss injections, but she still went for an endoscopy in January 2024. A camera was placed down her throat and into her stomach to examine if there was any cause for concern. Medics told her that she appeared to have an ulcer — an open sore in the stomach — that was almost 'completely healed.' They also said she had Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), a common bacteria that can cause sores and inflammation in the lining of the stomach or the upper part of the small intestine, according to WebMD. In some cases, the bacteria can also lead to stomach cancer. 'They gave me some treatment and said to come back in six weeks [when they were planning to] check that the ulcer has healed,' Stirling recalled of the medics. 'When I went back in six weeks, that little red mark was still there, so they sent some biopsies off. 'They had not said they were worried about cancer, which they would normally do if they were thinking 'ooh it looks nasty,' ' she continued. 'I was completely blinded when three weeks later I got a phone call to say I have something called signet ring cell adenocarcinoma, which is the most aggressive stomach cancer.' Stirling was told that the disease was likely caused by the H. pylori that she could have unknowingly had since childhood. She explained that her diagnosis was followed by a staging laparoscopy — a keyhole operation that involves the use of small cameras to examine inside the abdomen. She then underwent multiple rounds of chemotherapy and had surgery to remove her entire stomach. Stirling said a CT scan in January 2025 showed that she was 'all clear,' but the surgeons have followed up with her every three months since and she is due to have another CT scan in July. 'Overall, I'm doing really well, getting my strength back,' she said. 'I'm training for a half-marathon in October this year. I'm back in the gym. 'Obviously, I've lost a lot of weight because I don't have a stomach, so my eating is very different now, I have a lot of smaller portions,' she added. Never miss a story — sign up for to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. In a follow-up TikTok video, Stirling encouraged viewers to seek medical help if they're regularly experiencing heartburn, although the symptom isn't always an indicator of cancer. 'It's so important to get little things checked out,' she said. 'Even if you just think, 'Oh, I'll just see how it goes.' 'Anything that you just know in your body isn't right, I'd push to go and get it checked,' she added. 'It's what, like 15 minutes out of your day to go to a doctor's appointment that could potentially save your life.' Read the original article on People Solve the daily Crossword
Time Business News
5 days ago
- Health
- Time Business News
What Your Breath Might Be Telling You
Breath is more than just an everyday function or the result of your last meal; it's often a clue about your overall health. From subtle changes to noticeable odors, the way your breath smells can indicate what's happening inside your body. Sometimes, it's as simple as forgetting to floss, but other times, it could be an early sign of underlying health conditions. Your breath can carry distinct odors, and their significance goes far beyond oral hygiene. Below are some common smells and the potential insights they offer about your health. When your breath has a fruity or sweet smell, it may seem pleasant, but it could indicate a serious condition called diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). This condition occurs when the body doesn't have enough insulin and starts breaking down fat for energy, leading to a buildup of ketones in the blood. High levels of ketones can affect your breath, giving it a noticeable fruity aroma. If left untreated, DKA can be life-threatening, so this odor shouldn't be ignored. Breath with an ammonia-like smell, reminiscent of urine, could point to kidney issues. Kidneys play a crucial role in filtering waste from your blood and maintaining your body's overall balance. When the kidneys aren't functioning properly, waste products can build up in your body, including urea. This urea can break down into ammonia and result in a strong odor detectable in your breath. Bad breath, also known as halitosis, is often caused by poor oral hygiene or gum disease. However, if the smell is especially sulfuric, it might indicate an infection such as tonsillitis, sinusitis, or bronchitis. The bacteria causing these infections release compounds that result in a foul, rotting odor. The odors of your breath are often more than superficial; they can signal deeper health concerns. Here's how breath odors relate to specific medical conditions: Breath that smells fruity or sweet is commonly linked to diabetes, particularly Type 1 diabetes, when insulin levels are critically low. Diabetic ketoacidosis is a medical emergency and typically requires immediate intervention. Chronic kidney disease can cause a buildup of waste in your blood, leading to ammonia-smelling breath. Such odors may appear alongside fatigue, swollen feet, or difficulty concentrating. Liver disease can manifest as an odor often described as 'musty' or 'fishy.' The liver is responsible for detoxifying your body, and when it's compromised, certain compounds can escape into the bloodstream and the breath. Foul-smelling breath, particularly with a rotting undertone, could be indicative of lung infections like pneumonia or bronchitis. Respiratory issues can create the perfect environment for bacterial growth, leading to bad breath. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) If your breath smells sour or like vomit, GERD could be the culprit. Stomach acid flowing back into the esophagus can bring with it unpleasant odors. While occasional bad breath could simply mean it's time for a more thorough brushing, certain situations warrant professional advice. Consider seeing a doctor or dentist if: The odor persists despite good oral hygiene: Persistent bad breath might be a sign of underlying dental problems such as gum disease or cavities. Sometimes, dental issues may require interventions like dental implants, such as those offered in Pembroke Pines, to restore oral health. Persistent bad breath might be a sign of underlying dental problems such as gum disease or cavities. Sometimes, dental issues may require interventions like dental implants, such as those offered in Pembroke Pines, to restore oral health. There are other symptoms: Combine foul breath with symptoms like pain, unexplained weight loss, or fatigue, and it's time to consult a healthcare provider. Combine foul breath with symptoms like pain, unexplained weight loss, or fatigue, and it's time to consult a healthcare provider. You notice a specific odor, like fruity or ammonia: These smells are red flags for potential systemic health conditions, such as diabetes or kidney issues, and need immediate attention. Maintaining fresh breath means keeping your mouth clean, but it also involves taking care of your overall health. Here are some easy-to-follow tips: Brush and floss daily: Brush your teeth twice a day for at least two minutes and floss to remove food particles and plaque. Brush your teeth twice a day for at least two minutes and floss to remove food particles and plaque. Don't neglect your tongue: Bacteria love to hide on your tongue, so give it a good scrub with a tongue scraper or toothbrush. Bacteria love to hide on your tongue, so give it a good scrub with a tongue scraper or toothbrush. Stay hydrated: Dry mouth can exacerbate bad breath. Drinking water helps flush away bacteria and stimulates saliva production. Crunchy fruits and vegetables like apples, celery, and carrots help clean your teeth naturally. Limit sugary foods and drinks that can promote bacterial growth. Visit your dentist every six months for professional cleanings and checkups. Dentists can spot and treat issues before they escalate. From diabetes to GERD, systemic health conditions can affect your breath. Managing these conditions through medication, lifestyle changes, or other treatments can improve your breath, too. Your breath can reveal key insights into your health, from conditions like diabetes to the importance of oral hygiene. Unusual, persistent odors may signal bigger issues—don't ignore them. Fresh breath is the first step to better health! TIME BUSINESS NEWS
