gastroesophageal reflux disease

Understanding gastroesophageal reflux disease (gERD)

GERD, gastroesophageal reflux disease, is a chronic condition in which stomach acid or, occasionally, bile flows back (refluxes) into the esophagus, causing irritation and inflammation.

Normally, a muscular ring called the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) located at the junction of the esophagus and stomach prevents the backflow of stomach contents. In individuals with GERD, the LES may weaken or relax abnormally, allowing stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus.
This reflux of acid can cause various symptoms and damage the lining of the esophagus over time.

Symptoms of GERD can vary but commonly include heartburn, a burning sensation in the chest that may radiate to the throat or neck.
Other symptoms may include regurgitation, where stomach contents or sour-tasting acid back up into the throat or mouth, causing a bitter or acidic taste.

Some individuals may experience chest pain, difficulty swallowing, hoarseness, chronic cough, a feeling of a lump in the throat, sore throat, shortness of breath, nausea, and increased salivation.

Lifestyle modifications, such as maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding trigger foods (e.g., spicy or acidic foods), and eating smaller, more frequent meals, are often recommended as initial treatment options..

Diagnosis & Treatment of (gERD)

GERD is typically diagnosed based on the symptoms described by the patient and may be confirmed through various tests, such as an endoscopy, esophageal pH monitoring, or an upper gastrointestinal (GI) series.

Lifestyle modifications, such as maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding trigger foods (e.g., spicy or acidic foods), and eating smaller, more frequent meals, are often recommended as initial treatment options.

In addition to lifestyle changes, medications may be prescribed to reduce stomach acid production, such as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) or H2 blockers. In severe cases or when other treatments are ineffective, surgical interventions may be considered to reinforce the lower esophageal sphincter or correct anatomical abnormalities.

It's important to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate management of GERD, as untreated or poorly controlled GERD can lead to complications like esophagitis (inflammation of the esophagus), esophageal strictures, or Barrett's esophagus (a precancerous condition).

How can acupuncture help gastroesophageal reflux disease

The exact mechanism by which acupuncture may treat gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is not yet fully understood. However, several theories have been proposed to explain how acupuncture might have an effect on GERD symptoms.

Autonomic Nervous System Modulation:

Acupuncture may influence the autonomic nervous system, which controls various bodily functions, including digestion. By stimulating specific acupuncture points, it is believed that acupuncture can regulate the balance between the sympathetic and parasympathetic branches of the autonomic nervous system. This modulation may help normalize gastric acid secretion, improve esophageal motility, and reduce reflux symptoms.

Central Nervous System Effects:

Acupuncture has been shown to activate certain areas of the brain, such as the hypothalamus and limbic system, which are involved in regulating bodily functions. By stimulating specific acupuncture points, acupuncture influences these brain areas and modulates the neural pathways related to digestion and the gastrointestinal tract, potentially reducing GERD symptoms.

Endorphin Release:

Acupuncture stimulates the release of endorphins, which are natural pain-relieving and mood-enhancing substances. The release of endorphins may promote a sense of relaxation and well-being, which can help reduce stress and anxiety. Since stress and anxiety are known to exacerbate GERD symptoms, acupuncture-induced relaxation may indirectly alleviate symptoms.

Local Effects:

Inserting acupuncture needles into specific points on the body triggers local biochemical and physiological responses. It is believed that the stimulation of acupuncture points may affect local tissue perfusion, immune responses, and the release of various substances, such as neurotransmitters and hormones. These local effects might contribute to the therapeutic effects of acupuncture for GERD.

Here are a few studies that have explored acupuncture as a potential treatment for GERD:

  • A systematic review and meta-analysis" (2017) by Ma T, et al. - This systematic review and meta-analysis analyzed the effectiveness of acupuncture for GERD. The study concluded that acupuncture appeared to be more effective than conventional medication for reducing GERD symptoms, but the overall quality of the evidence was low.

  • A systematic review and meta-analysis" (2019) by Chen Y, et al. - This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the use of acupuncture for refractory GERD (GERD that does not respond well to conventional treatment). The results suggested that acupuncture might provide a clinical benefit for refractory GERD, but further research is needed.

  • A systematic review and meta-analysis" (2019) by Chen J, et al. - This systematic review and meta-analysis assessed the effectiveness of acupuncture for GERD. The findings indicated that acupuncture could reduce GERD symptoms and improve quality of life.

In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), individualized herbal formulas are often prescribed based on a person's specific symptoms and patterns of disharmony. It is recommended to consult with a qualified TCM practitioner or herbalist for personalized recommendations.

Here are a few examples of commonly mentioned herbal formulas:

  • This formula is often used for addressing symptoms of GERD, such as acid regurgitation, chest discomfort, and belching. It typically contains herbs like Pinellia (Ban Xia), Scutellaria (Huang Qin), Poria (Fu Ling), and Ginger (Gan Jiang). It is believed to regulate qi (energy) and harmonize the stomach to alleviate reflux symptoms.

  • This formula is commonly used for digestive disorders, including GERD, especially when there are symptoms of bloating, poor appetite, and abdominal discomfort. It often includes herbs like Ginseng (Ren Shen), White Atractylodes (Bai Zhu), Poria (Fu Ling), Licorice (Gan Cao), and others. The formula aims to strengthen the spleen and stomach functions to improve digestion and reduce reflux symptoms.

  • This formula is used for addressing symptoms of excessive phlegm production, such as chronic cough, chest congestion, and a feeling of fullness in the chest. It typically contains herbs like Perilla Seed (Su Zi), Pinellia (Ban Xia), Citrus Peel (Chen Pi), and Ginger (Gan Jiang). The formula aims to resolve phlegm and regulate qi flow to alleviate chest symptoms associated with GERD.

  • Although primarily used for addressing insomnia and emotional disturbances, this herbal formula may be prescribed in cases where GERD symptoms are worsened by emotional stress. It typically contains herbs such as Schisandra (Wu Wei Zi), Polygonum (He Shou Wu), and Ziziphus (Suan Zao Ren). By nourishing the heart and calming the mind, it aims to reduce stress and its impact on digestive function.

Important!

It is crucial to remember that using Chinese herbal formulas should be done under the guidance of a qualified TCM herbalist who can assess your individual condition and prescribe the appropriate formula tailored to your needs.