How can I relieve worsening GERD symptoms after yoga?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am a 50-year-old yoga instructor with no previous digestive issues. Over the past two months, I have felt a burning sensation in my chest and throat about an hour after eating, especially when I eat acidic foods like tomatoes or citrus fruits. The symptoms worsen after certain yoga poses, particularly when I bend forward or lie flat during relaxation. I have also been waking up at night with a bitter taste. Could this be GERD (gastro-oesophageal respiratory disorder)? Should I change my practice or diet, and do you recommend any medications or tests?

Kindly help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

I read your query and understand your concerns. From what you have described, you may have gastroesophageal reflux disease, which is a chronic condition where stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing symptoms and potentially leading to complications. Waking up at night with a bitter taste in your mouth is likely caused by stomach contents backing up into your esophagus, which happens when the lower esophageal sphincter muscle relaxes.

Treatment for GERD usually involves a combination of lifestyle changes, over-the-counter medications to help manage symptoms, and possibly prescription medications.

Here are some tips to help manage GERD:

Weight loss: Maintaining a healthy weight can reduce pressure on the stomach.
Avoid trigger foods: Avoid acidic foods like citrus fruits and tomato sauce.
Elevate the head of the bed: This can help prevent acid from flowing back into the esophagus while you sleep.
Avoid lying down right after eating: Wait at least two hours before going to bed after eating.
As for further tests, you might not need them right away. Just follow these tips and see if your symptoms improve.

I hope you are satisfied with my answer. For further queries, you can consult me at iCliniq.

Thank you.