Question

self medicated and it's results for GERD

the question is

How might be an adult self-medicate for GERE amd with what results?

Answer 1

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a disorder of gastrointestinal motility associated with reflux of stomach contents into the esophagus and oral cavity.It is identified when reflux of stomach contents cause troublesome symptoms and/or complications.

GERD is characterized by two cardinal esophageal symptoms: 1) heartburn (reflux); and 2) regurgitation. Extra-esophageal symptoms such as non-cardiac chest (epigastric) pain, dental erosion, cough, laryngitis, and asthma are associated with, but are not specific for, GERD. GERD is also commonly associated with lower quality of life, poor quality of sleep and decreased work productivity. Complications of GERD include reflux esophagitis (most common), esophageal stricture, Barrett’s esophagus, and esophageal adenocarcinoma.   

There are many self care options available to treat heartburn, ranging from simple lifestyle advice to treatment with proton pump inhibitors, and this very variety can cause confusion. Consumers may be unaware of the relevant properties of treatments that determine which is the best choice for them.Many people with intermittent symptoms require only an awareness of the triggers for episodes and occasional self medication with antacids; these individuals seldom seek advice. However more frequent sufferers may consult healthcare professionals, often after a period of sub-optimal self care. These individuals are best served by advice and treatment tailored to their pattern of suffering.

Potential risks of self-medication practices include: incorrect self-diagnosis, delays in seeking medical advice when needed, infrequent but severe adverse reactions, dangerous drug interactions, incorrect manner of administration, incorrect dosage, incorrect choice of therapy, masking of a severe disease etc :

The treatment is based on (1) lifestyle modification and (2) control of gastric acid secretion through medical therapy with antacids or PPIs or surgical treatment with corrective antireflux surgery.

Approximately 80% of patients have a recurrent but nonprogressive form of GERD that is controlled with medications. Identifying the 20% of patients who have a progressive form of the disease is important, because they may develop severe complications, such as strictures or Barrett esophagus. For patients who develop complications, surgical treatment should be considered at an earlier stage to avoid the sequelae of the disease that can have serious consequences.