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The facts about GERD
GERD, or Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease, is technically classified as chronic acid reflux. Many people, over 55 percent of the population of Europe and the U.S., suffer from severe heartburn, especially at night. GERD sufferers complain of similar symptoms, including coughing, snoring, chest pain, acid regurgitation, trouble falling asleep, and trouble staying asleep. Getting less sleep per night can actually intensify GERD symptoms as well as further progressing the problem. You do not have to be up all night suffering from these symptoms to feel the effects of a terrible nights sleep. Although you may not notice symptoms of exhaustion during the day, you may be affected still. GERD could be keeping you from reaching stage 4 and REM sleep, which are the most restful and re-energizing stages.
There are many prescription drugs available that can help combat GERD. Drugs such as Nexium, Protonix, Aciphex, and Prevacid, are the most popular prescriptions for GERD, along with Prilosec, which used to be prescription but is now available over-the-counter. Although their popularity skyrocketed in 2005 (over $13 billion is sales that year alone) there is a little known danger associated with taking these drugs.
Many studies have shown that these PPIs, or Proton Pump Inhibitors, can reduce your amount of calcium. Stomach acid helps absorb calcium in preparation for distribution throughout the body. Taking these prescriptions for long periods can drastically reduce calcium levels, never allowing the calcium to be properly absorbed, leaving you prone to broken bones.
In a case study released in The Journal of the American Medical Association in 2006, many people showed an increase in broken hips that had been taking PPIs. The study was inconclusive, showing that people who are prone to osteoporosis have a better chance of breaking a bone, especially if they are taking one of these prescriptions. AstraZeneca, the makers of Nexium and Prilosec, reported that there is a potential association between calcium loss and broken bones with the taking of PPIs. Doctors say that patients taking this drug should take a calcium supplement with an acid low meal, at least once a week, to help improve calcium levels in the body.
Here are a few ways to reduce and avoid GERD:
*Stay away from fatty and acidic foods
*Eat at least 2 to 3 hours before going to bed
*Avoid laying down right after eating (this can push acids into your stomach)
*Quit smoking and avoid alcohol (causes the esophageal sphincter to relax, letting acids through)
*Do not wear tight clothing when going to bed
*Use a foam bed wedge to raise your upper body while you are trying to sleep (4
to 8 inches is recommended, depending on the individual)
By following a diet and exercise regiment, along with the above recommendations, GERD can be held to a bare minimum without the use of costly prescription drugs. If you follow these tips and your problems with GERD are not reduced you should contact your doctor as soon as possible.
