Stress is a Trigger for Heartburn

Previously published in Examiner

Part 3 of the heartburn series

Many Montrealers suffer from GERD, or Gastroesophageal reflux disease. This disease is chronic, meaning people suffer from it for many years. Perhaps you suffer from it yourself of you know a person or two who is drinking pepto bismal like it is soda pop.

Montrealers will go to their family doctors or walk in clinic if they are concerned about GERD. The doctor will then refer them to a gastroenterologist. If you prefer a private clinic you can try: The Montreal Clinic J.S. Benhamron for Gastroenterology, the consultation is covered by medicare. Children will be seen by their pediatricians who may refer them to a specialist after the initial consultation.

We spoke about Gerd - gastroesophageal reflux disease in detail in previous articles, but we never really explained how it is different from simple heartburn. This article will explain some of the differences.

Medications

It is important if you find that over counter medication is not working that you see a doctor. If you do in fact have GERD, you need prescription medication. The medication that you have been taking over the counter can actually make the condition worse.

If you doctor suspects GERD, he or she will give you a referral to a gastroenterologist.

To prepare for the exam make sure you know of any diet restrictions prior to the exam;

Jot down all the symptoms you have even if you do not think they are related.

Since stress can be a factor for your heartburn or acid reflux, make sure you let you doctor know of any stressors in your life such as moving, loss of home or job, family problems, arguments and teenagers problems, health concerns, and so on.

Don't forget to mark down all the medications, prescription and over the counter you have, vitamins, the pill, and so on.

You doctor will ask you various questions like:

What are your symptoms, when did they start and how long do they last, are they chronic, do you notice they only happen when you eat certain foods, do they occur day or night, how often do the symptoms occur, do you have trouble swallowing, do you bring up sour liquid or food, what makes the symptoms better or worse, do you feel nauseated or do you vomit, and have you gained or loss weight since the symptoms began?

Source:

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/heartburn-gerd/DS00095/DSECTION=alternative-medicine