GERD is an acronym for gastroesophageal reflux disease, a condition in which the acids from the stomach start flowing back to the esophagus – a tube connecting the mouth and stomach. A few common signs include the presence of food, cough, vomiting, etc. But does back pain relate to GERD?
GERD and Back Pain – What’s the link?
Even if you are equipped with some knowledge about normal human anatomy, you may not understand the relationship between GERD and back pain; that’s why we are here with answers.
The esophagus has two ends, one towards the stomach and the other opening up at the mouth. Sphincter muscle guards and controls the stomach side opening to keep the acids in control.
GERD patients suffer from chronic acid reflux. The sphincter fails to contract, and the acids flow out. GERD pain radiates from the front to the back, with the abdominal region and chest burning. It could be anywhere, between the shoulder blades (in the upper back area) or from the mid to lower back.
How Can We Treat GERD and Back Pain Issues?
The first line of treatment is always alternative medicines for back pain that do not affect the stomach lining. This will provide symptomatic relief.
Then, you modify your diet to reduce heartburn for reducing due to GERD.
- Use bananas, either in the form of shakes or mashed, to soothe inflammation.
- Oatmeal for breakfast.
- Yogurt
- Increased use of green vegetables.
- Melons
- Root vegetables
- Foods that have a high water percentage.
GERD – Medicinal Treatment
- Antacids – salts that help in the neutralization of gastric acidity.
- Histamine blockers will decrease the release of acids in the stomach.
- Prokinetic agents help the GI muscles to contract and relax at appropriate times.
GERD and Back Pain – Causes
Food Intake
This disease is related to the stomach, and our diet is majorly what affects it, one of the triggering factors for back pain reflex from GERD. Eating food items
that trigger acid reflux and consequent pain to a greater extent.
One of the markers of people who have back pain with reflux have decreased mobility and enhanced craving to eat.
A few edibles that are a stimulus for acid reflux include:
- Greasy food
- Caffeinated items like coffee, chocolate, alcohol, etc.
Back pain due to acid reflux in GERD patients is not continuous and is more episodic. However, it is most likely to occur at the time of meals.
Stress
The stomach acids do not have enough prostaglandins, so the composition is altered. Prostaglandins are lipid-based components that act like hormones to protect the stomach from acid attacks.
NSAIDs – Non-steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs
They are painkillers that have proven adverse effects for GERD and associated back pain. The medicines named below are some common ones that cause this issue:
- Ibuprofen
- Naproxen
These drugs show a promising effect on pain in the back; however, they worsen the stomach lining overall.
Final Words
If you can no longer control the pain or GERD symptoms, drop by PCP for life to get prompt treatment. Our line of experts will cater to you and take your pain away in no time. Give us a call at (281) 968-4096.
