Asthma and Gastro Esophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

Here’s a brief but interesting explanation of the relationship between asthma and gastro esophageal reflux disease (GERD):

http://www.webmd.com/asthma/guide/heartburn-asthma

In my case, I have suffered quite severely in the past because of this problem.

After some painful episodes of reflux, I finally had a gastroendoscopy (yuck!) where a hiatal hernia was found. This is a problem in the hiatus, which is the “valve” that closes the stomach… not working properly, it can allow digestion juices to move up the esophagus.

In not-too-severe cases, it can easily be treated by changing some habits and eventually some medication (Omeprazol or Losec)

The habits to change include:

• The head of the bed should be raised by at least a few inches
• It is needed to avoid having dinner just before going to bed… this is perfectly ok for an American or European but not so easy for a Uruguayan, as our usual dinner time is between 9 and 10 pm!!
• Avoiding or at least reducing the consumption of some things, such as caffeine drinks, high fat food, tomatoes, alcohol, etc (especially at night)

For those interested, here’s a much longer explanation of hiatal hernia and the problems it can cause:

http://www.findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m0ISW/is_241-242/ai_107201216/

Beginning of Asthma New Season... lots of new episodes!

We are in those days that asthmatic people all over the world hate. It doesn’t matter where you live… it may be spring or autumn, but for sure it’s not a nice time for your allergies!

It may look as simple as 1-2-3, but we know the sad truth: it’s a tough time for us.

Apart from keeping your favourite antihistaminic at hand, do you have a tip to share?