Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

 

What is GERD?

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease, or GERD, is a chronic digestive disorder where stomach acid, and occasionally bile, backflows into the esophagus, causing irritation and inflammation of the esophagus lining. This condition can lead to symptoms such as heartburn, chest pain, regurgitation, difficulty swallowing, and sour or bitter tastes.

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What causes GERD?

GERD is caused by the weakening or malfunctioning of the lower esophageal sphincter, or LES, a ring of muscle that acts as a valve between the esophagus and stomach. Normally, the LES opens to allow food to enter the stomach and closes to prevent stomach contents from backflowing into the esophagus.

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Some factors contributing to GERD include obesity, hiatal hernia, pregnancy, smoking, certain foods and drinks, medications, and particular medical conditions, such as achalasia.

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What are the symptoms of GERD?

The symptoms of GERD vary depending on the person experiencing them. Some common symptoms include heartburn, regurgitation, chest pain, difficulty swallowing, nausea, vomiting, bad breath, chronic coughing, and a sour taste in the mouth.

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How is GERD treated?

GERD treatments are determined by symptom severity and frequency. Standard treatment options for the condition are lifestyle changes, medications, and surgery.

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Specific lifestyle changes can help reduce GERD symptoms. These modifications include losing weight, avoiding spicy and acidic foods, quitting smoking, consuming smaller meals, and limiting late eating. GERD treatment also includes medications, such as antacids, that neutralize stomach acid and temporarily relieve symptoms. H2 receptor blockers, such as Pepcid and Zantac, and proton pump inhibitors, like Nexium and Prilosec, help reduce the production of stomach acid and provide long-lasting relief.

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Depending on the severity, some conditions of GERD may require surgery. For example, fundoplication is a surgical procedure that involves wrapping the upper part of the stomach around the lower esophageal sphincter to strengthen it and prevent acid reflux.

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Leaving GERD symptoms untreated can lead to complications such as esophagitis, strictures, and Barrett's esophagus, increasing the risk of esophageal cancer.

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How does GERD affect brain wellness?

Although GERD primarily affects the digestive system, it can also impact brain wellness in several ways.

GERD symptoms can cause sleep disturbances, such as difficulty falling asleep, frequent waking at night, and daytime sleepiness. These disruptions can lead to decreased cognitive function, mood changes, and impaired memory.

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Chronic inflammation caused by GERD can also contribute to oxidative stress in the brain, leading to cellular damage and increasing the risk of neurological disorders such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.

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Additionally, GERD medications, such as proton pump inhibitors, have been linked to an increased risk of cognitive decline and dementia. While the exact cause of this condition is unknown, researchers believe proton pump inhibitors may affect the balance of gut bacteria, impacting brain health.

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How can Brain Frequency™ help?

The Brain Frequency™ AI system is an innovative therapeutic approach to improving brain health and wellness. We use proprietary science-based technology to promote optimal brain functioning across mental, emotional, physical, and social domains. Our diagnostic technology and individualized treatment protocols help decrease or eliminate trauma-related symptoms and various mental health disorders.

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The Brain Frequency™ 3 Step Treatment Process consists of; first, performing a Baseline EEG and completing Psychometric Assessments; second, conducting a Brain Frequency Consultation; and third, Initiating Treatment.

An Electroencephalogram (EEG) analyzes brain waves and produces a brain map identifying current and optimal frequencies in 19 areas of the brain. Based on the individualized brain map, Brain Frequency™ will determine possible diagnoses of various mental health disorders or brain trauma for the provider to consider during treatment. Brain Frequency™ AI software provides clinicians with an "Approval Ready" treatment plan using personalized protocols based on each patient's needs.

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Those suffering from symptoms of GERD can efficiently and effectively improve their brain health and wellness by using the Brain Frequency™ AI system. Our innovative system drastically reduces the time needed to properly diagnose and construct treatment plans leading to a faster recovery and greater quality of life.

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RESOURCES

 

Substance Abuse & Mental Health Service Administration (SAMHSA): https://www.samhsa.gov/

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Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA): https://www.hrsa.gov/

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National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH): https://www.nimh.nih.gov/

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Center For Disease Control & Prevention (CDC): https://www.cdc.gov/

American Psychological Association (APA): https://www.apa.org/

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National Institutes of Health (NIH): https://www.nih.gov/

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National Suicide Prevention Line: https://988lifeline.org/

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National Library of Medicine: https://medlineplus.gov/

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Mayo Clinic: https://www.mayoclinic.org/

 

WebMD: https://www.webmd.com/