Many people in Malaysia suffer from heartburn, which is also known as acid reflux or GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease). From a burning sensation in the chest to chronic coughing and irritation of the throat, this condition can greatly impact your quality of life if not properly managed. Thankfully, gastric reflux pain can be well managed if early intervention and the appropriate treatment approach are undertaken.
The primary cause of gastric reflux pain is a dysfunction of the lower oesophagal sphincter (LES), a muscle that serves as a gatekeeper between your stomach and oesophagus. When the LES becomes weak or relaxes inappropriately, stomach acid can easily flow back to the oesophagus, thus irritating the oesophagus lining and causing discomfort.
Some lifestyle and dietary habits in Malaysia are likely to cause or aggravate this condition. Spicy and oily foods, along with daily meals in many local dishes, can irritate the stomach lining and raise acid production. Eating bulky food late in the night, which is a common practice in urban areas, also contributes to reflux since lying down immediately after eating makes it easier for acid to move upwards. Additionally, factors such as obesity, smoking, alcohol drinking, pregnancy, and even stress are also known to worsen gastric reflux.
Heartburn is one of the most recognisable symptoms of gastric reflux; it is a burning sensation that usually starts in the chest and moves upwards to the throat. Some people regurgitate food or have a sour taste in their mouth. Other symptoms include difficulty in swallowing, chronic cough, sore throat, and hoarseness, especially in the morning. In certain instances, gastric reflux pain may mimic heart-related problems, and therefore, it is necessary to seek the services of a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.
The good news is that gastric reflux pain is treatable. Treatment usually begins with lifestyle and dietary changes. Patients can often mitigate their gastric reflux by avoiding certain foods, eating smaller meals, and maintaining an upright position for two hours after eating. Patients should maintain normal body weight and stop smoking to reduce pressure on the stomach and improve sphincter function.
For people with ongoing symptoms, medications such as antacids, H2 blockers, or proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are often prescribed to reduce acid production and heal the lining of the throat.
In more severe or ongoing cases, the doctor might suggest using a tube with a camera to look inside the stomach (this is called an endoscopy). Or they might suggest an operation. But not everyone wants to rely only on medication or treatments that are a bit more extreme. This is where other treatments, like the ones offered at VL Therapy, can help.
VL Therapy's approach to the care of gastroesophageal reflux pain is holistic and body-centric overall.
1.VL Therapy's approach to the care of gastroesophageal reflux pain is holistic and body-centric overall. One of the therapies offered is Visceral Manipulation. It is a hands-on methodology that uses gentle touch to assist the movement capability of the internal organs. Here, the main focus is on the stomach and the diaphragm to make sure they are in the right position and that the lower oesophagal sphincter (LES) is working properly. Ultimately helping in reducing gastroesophageal reflux pain.
2.VL Therapy also offers Manual Lymphatic Drainage, which helps stimulate the lymphatic system and helps the body with its innate ability to expel inflammatory tissue and support its own detoxification process. Additionally, neural manipulation is offered in case of nerve dysfunction or stress. It assists with any restrictions within the nervous system that may be affecting the body's ability to digest food appropriately.
3.The physiotherapy methods used by VL Therapy are designed to deal with the root cause of pain, not just the symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux. For those exploring a different method of dealing with their reflux pain, these body-based therapies can be a safe, viable alternative if long-term medication management of gastroesophageal reflux pain is not the right fit.
Gastric reflux pain doesn't have to be a daily battle. You can find relief and regain your equilibrium with a practical approach that incorporates lifestyle changes, medical care, and integrative treatment options (like VL Therapy!). If you want to approach the problem naturally, in a hands-on way, and using your whole body as a focal point of care, VL Therapy offers individualised support to motivate you to feel better on the inside and outside.For more information, visit today at http://vltherapy.com.my/.