Managing GERD: Symptoms and Treatment Options in Traditional Chinese Medicine

Gastroesophageal reflux causes a burning sensation in the chest, which can lead to stomach acid flowing up into the nasal cavity?

Hello, I would like to ask about my symptoms.
I feel a warmth between my chest and the two nipples, and in my esophagus.
When I eat normally to about 80% full, eat fruits, and limit sweets, and go to bed between 10:30 and 11:30 PM, my symptoms remain relatively stable.
However, recently, after eating a bit more, particularly when I had sesame oil chicken with tofu skin without the soup and drank less than 250cc of unsweetened green tea, the symptoms reappeared.
Typically, around 4:30 PM, I experience a burning sensation in my chest, which I try to alleviate by eating some fruits and cereal.
I have also been taking traditional Chinese medicine for the past two to three weeks, but I still feel acid reflux at around 10:30 PM, prompting me to go to sleep quickly to avoid insomnia.
Recently, for the past two days, my throat has felt burning, and when lying down at night, it feels like stomach acid is flowing into my nasal cavity, which is very uncomfortable.

Why do I feel acid reflux about three hours after eating? The doctor prescribed traditional Chinese medicine to reduce stomach Qi and herbal antacids (like seaweed and oyster).
However, the first time I took it, my throat felt tight and I experienced thirst; is this normal? After that, it wasn't a major issue, but the symptoms remain similar.
I have also consulted a Western doctor who prescribed antacids; can I continue taking them? I am concerned that stopping the Western antacids might lead to increased stomach acid production, so I only take them at night or when I feel very uncomfortable.
Can gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) improve solely with traditional Chinese medicine? The doctor mentioned it might take at least 1 to 2 months for improvement.
Thank you!

Xiao Mo, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/02/11

Dr. Qiu Shuize reply Traditional Chinese Medicine

Please cherish our online medical resources.
When asking the same question, please specify only one physician or nutritionist.

Hello: First, thank you for your inquiry.
It seems that your gastric function issues have been ongoing for some time.
If this condition persists, it may be necessary to consider further detailed examinations of the stomach and esophagus.
Chronic gastroesophageal reflux can easily lead to inflammation and erosion of the affected areas, potentially resulting in localized structural damage and changes.
Based on your description, you indeed need to pay attention to your daily dietary choices and even adopt a principle of avoiding foods that are likely to trigger acid reflux, in order to prevent exacerbation and recurrence of your symptoms.

It is important to consider the properties of food, such as warming, heating, cooling, and neutral, as well as flavors like sour, bitter, sweet, spicy, and salty, and how to appropriately incorporate them into your diet.
This is a preliminary condition for alleviating and preventing the worsening of your condition.
Of course, combining this with the medical interventions you are currently seeking will be beneficial.

Additionally, maintaining a regular daily routine and managing both physiological and psychological stress are essential elements for your recovery.
In summary, if your acid reflux is still at a functional pathological stage of the gastrointestinal tract, conservative treatment through traditional Chinese medicine or Western medicine can help restore your health in a short period.
However, if there are already structural changes and damage to your stomach and esophagus, further aggressive treatment, including necessary surgical assistance, may need to be considered, which requires careful evaluation and diagnosis with your physician.

Reply Date: 2017/02/11

More Info

Managing gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can be challenging, especially when symptoms like heartburn and acid regurgitation interfere with daily life. Your description of symptoms, including a burning sensation in the chest and throat, particularly after meals, aligns with common manifestations of GERD. It’s important to understand both the symptoms and treatment options available, including those from Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM).

Understanding GERD Symptoms
GERD occurs when stomach acid frequently flows back into the esophagus, leading to irritation and inflammation. Common symptoms include:
1. Heartburn: A burning sensation in the chest, often after eating or when lying down.

2. Regurgitation: The sensation of acid backing up into the throat or mouth.

3. Dysphagia: Difficulty swallowing, which may occur due to esophageal inflammation.

4. Chronic cough or throat irritation: This can happen if acid reaches the throat or lungs.

5. Sour taste in the mouth: Often associated with regurgitation.

Your experience of symptoms worsening after certain foods, like the oily chicken and green tea, is typical. Fatty foods, caffeine, and acidic beverages can exacerbate GERD symptoms by relaxing the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), which normally prevents acid from flowing back into the esophagus.

Treatment Options in Traditional Chinese Medicine
In TCM, GERD is often viewed as a disharmony in the stomach and spleen, leading to excess heat and phlegm accumulation. Here are some common TCM approaches:
1. Herbal Remedies: Your physician has prescribed herbal formulas aimed at reducing stomach heat and promoting digestion. Ingredients like oyster shell (Mu Li) and seaweed (Hai Zao) are known for their ability to neutralize stomach acid and reduce reflux symptoms. It’s not uncommon to experience initial discomfort as your body adjusts to new herbal treatments, but ongoing symptoms should be monitored.

2. Dietary Adjustments: TCM emphasizes the importance of diet in managing GERD. Foods that are warm and easy to digest, such as congee or steamed vegetables, are often recommended. Avoiding spicy, greasy, and overly sweet foods can help maintain digestive harmony.

3. Acupuncture: This practice can help alleviate symptoms by promoting the flow of Qi (energy) and blood, reducing inflammation, and calming the digestive system. Regular sessions may provide relief from GERD symptoms.

4. Lifestyle Modifications: TCM encourages a balanced lifestyle, including regular meal times, adequate sleep, and stress management techniques like Tai Chi or meditation. Elevating the head during sleep can also help prevent nighttime symptoms.

Western Medicine Considerations
You mentioned taking Western medications, such as acid neutralizers. It’s understandable to be concerned about the potential rebound effect of stopping these medications, which can lead to increased acid production. It’s advisable to consult with your healthcare provider regarding the best approach to tapering off these medications if you choose to rely more on TCM.

Conclusion
While TCM can be effective in managing GERD symptoms, it often requires time and consistency. Your physician's recommendation of 1-2 months for improvement is reasonable, as herbal treatments can take time to balance the body's systems. It’s crucial to maintain open communication with both your TCM practitioner and your Western medicine provider to ensure a comprehensive approach to your treatment.

If your symptoms persist or worsen, or if you experience significant discomfort, it’s essential to seek further medical evaluation. GERD can lead to complications if left untreated, so ongoing monitoring and adjustment of your treatment plan are key to managing this condition effectively.

Similar Q&A

Exploring Traditional Chinese Medicine for Long-Term Relief from GERD

Hello, Doctor: I have symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease, but I experience some side effects from taking Western medications (PPIs), such as abdominal bloating or mild pain. After completing the entire course of treatment, can I switch to traditional Chinese medicine for...

Dr. Huang Zhongzhun reply Traditional Chinese Medicine
Dear Kevin, Reflux esophagitis typically presents with symptoms such as a burning sensation in the chest, acid regurgitation, and a feeling of a foreign body in the throat. Western medicine's use of proton pump inhibitors has shown good results; however, improper dietary ha...

Managing Gastroesophageal Reflux: Insights from Traditional Chinese Medicine

I have been suffering from gastroesophageal reflux since the beginning of the year. Initially, I consulted a Western medicine doctor, but the improvement was minimal. I experience nausea in the morning, a burning sensation in my chest after eating, belching, and slight bloating, ...

Dr. Lin Qingzhong reply Traditional Chinese Medicine
Dear Nick/0/21 user, 1. Since last year, you have been experiencing a burning sensation in your chest after eating, belching, and mild bloating, but you do not have stomach pain, sore throat, or morning nausea. The Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) diagnosis suggests possible g...

Managing Gastroesophageal Reflux: Combining Western and Traditional Chinese Medicine

Hello, Doctor: I have been experiencing gastroesophageal reflux for nearly a year. I have undergone an endoscopy and have been taking Western medications, but after six months of taking PPIs, I have not fully recovered. Recently, I would like to try traditional Chinese medicine, ...

Dr. Qiu Shuize reply Traditional Chinese Medicine
Hello: First of all, thank you for your inquiry. Your gastric function issues have been ongoing for some time. Chronic acid reflux can easily lead to inflammation and irritation in the affected areas. In severe cases, it may result in localized structural damage and changes. Indi...

Managing Acid Reflux: Traditional Chinese Medicine vs. Western Treatments

I have symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). I'm currently only taking over-the-counter antacids. Is it okay to see a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner? Additionally, could you explain the differences in health insurance coverage between Western and Chi...

Dr. Lin Qingzhong reply Traditional Chinese Medicine
Dear User / 30 years old; Hello! 1. You are experiencing symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Currently, you are only taking over-the-counter antacids. It is advisable to consult a qualified traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) practitioner. 2. If the treatment...