I am a 56-year-old female suffering from gastroesophageal reflux disease (Gerd) and often experience a burning sensation in my throat, gums and lips. The symptoms subsided within one week of taking medication but they have since returned.
Gerd occurs when the lower oesophageal sphincter opens or does not close properly and stomach contents rise to the oesophagus.
It is caused by a deficiency in the functions of the liver and stomach, insufficient qi, poor blood circulation and a stagnation of qi. Pathogenic factors such as phlegm, heat and dampness are also responsible.
Chinese medicine, acupuncture, cupping therapy and 'tui-na' massage can improve your condition by strengthening your organs and dispelling the pathogenic factors.
Chinese herbs such as Golden Thread (huanglian) and Chinese Dandelion (pugongying) are usually prescribed to reduce the burning sensation and stomach heat.
Arca Shell (walengzi) and Cuttlebone (haipiaoxiao) can reduce stomach acid and produce a layer of tissue in the stomach and oesophagus to prevent inflammation. Common Vladimiriae Root (muxiang), Nutgrass Galingale Rhizome (xiangfu) and Turmeric Root- tuber (yujin) are effective in improving the circulation of qi to reduce pain.
Inula Flower (xuanfuhua) and Hematite (zheshi) help to reduce vomiting, while Chinese Eaglewood Wood (chenxiang) and Fresh Ginger (shengjiang) help to reduce burping.
Avoid stress where possible as this creates liver heat and fire. Do not drink and smoke as these create heat and dampness.
Lose weight if you are obese. An overweight person is more prone to having a weak digestive system and tends to produce more heat and phlegm than a person of normal weight. In addition, avoid overeating as this causes the contents of the stomach to rise to the oesophagus.
To stop the burning sensation, sleep on your side and use a pillow to elevate your head by about 10 to 20cm. Also, go on a liquid or soft diet such as porridge.
Do not eat less than four hours before sleeping. Taking smaller but frequent meals throughout the day can help improve your digestive system.
Abstain from fatty food as it creates phlegm. Do not take spicy food, tea, coffee and alcohol as these create heat and phlegm. Citrus fruit such as oranges and lemons also cause heat and phlegm.
You should also avoid cruciferous vegetables such as cauliflower and broccoli as they weaken the circulation of qi. Instead, drink more pear juice or honey. Substitute cooking oil with olive oil. These protect the oesophagus' inner lining.
Exercises such as taiji, qigong and swimming can improve the circulation of qi.
Information provided by Ms Lim Lay Beng, a TCM physician at YS Healthcare TCM Clinic in The Adelphi.
