Gastro-esophageal reflux disease or GERD, for short, is a condition where acidic contents in the stomach flow backward and up into the esophagus causing inflammation of the lining of the esophagus.

Some of the signs and symptoms of GERD include:

-Nausea after eating
-A sensation of something being stuck in the throat
-Chest pain
-Bitter taste in the mouth
-Acid reflux
-Heartburn after eating, when bending over or when lying down

Western modes of treatment may entail:

-Eating antacids after a meal
-Smoking cessation
-Avoidance of foods that trigger symptoms such as spicy foods or alcohol
-Elevating the head during sleep

GERD conditions may also result in the development of complications if left untreated. Some of these complications are:

-Irritation of the airways
-Changes in the esophageal lining that ma result in cancer, a constriction of the esophagus or the inflammation of the esophagus
-Cough
-Dental problems due to the regurgitation of acid

Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) sees GERD as due to spleen-liver or earth-wood disharmony combined with heat. This may be the result of the liver meridian developing a blockage due to chi stagnation or stress and the spleen meridian unable to perform its digestive functions. The heat generates the inability to eat certain foods and the typical burning sensation.

A good TCM course of treatment will involve acupuncture and special herbs that prevent acid from going back into the esophagus, help increase spleen chi, restore proper flow of liver chi, and clears heat. This combination of the two modalities will make it unnecessary for you to sleep in an elevated position, prevent any acid regurgitation, treat the bitter taste in your mouth, make you get rid of the uncomfortable sensation of something stuck in your throat, and help you stop feeling any nausea after eating. Acupuncture and herbal therapy can also help eliminate your need for any intake of antacids. With this, you may be able to resume your daily normal activities and once and for all eliminate any of the disruption and discomforts GERD can cause in your life.

Synoma Wellness Centre
2150 Alt. 19, Suite B,
Palm Harbor, FL 34683
Phone: (727) 785-5950
www.palmharboracupuncture.com