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.