Why do some of us often dread the night after an evening of culinary indulgence?
"Staying up late at night, waking up multiple times with burning sensation in chest or throat, pacing up and down in our room or trying to sleep while sitting in a chair is never an ideal way to spend the night," says Dr Amir Nisar, Consultant General Surgery (GI, Hernia and Biliary surgeon), Fakeeh University Hospital, Dubai Silicon Oasis.
"It affects our family life and work the following day, not to mention the all-important good mood which is so crucial for a healthy home and work environment. An ongoing concerned look replaces the calm and comfortable look of the person, suffering from GERD."
Gastro Esophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) is a common condition affecting about 1 in 3 persons every now and then. However, in general, 1 in 5 persons (20%) suffer from GERD that is severe enough to take medication, restrictive precautions and medical advice on a regular basis.
Heart burn or acid reflux, as it is commonly known, can happen at any age. From newborns to the elderly in their 90s, anyone can have GERD and may require medical or surgical treatment.
"Medical treatment is safe and mandatory to avoid some serious complications of GERD, such as the cancer of Oesophagus (gullet). While medical treatment is ideal in the short and medium term to keep the symptoms under control, surgery is appropriate and recommended for the medium to long term cure of the condition and to improve the quality of life. Surgery for the complex condition of GERD by an expert surgeon in a good hospital setting is worth considering," says Dr Nisar.
"Laparoscopic Nissen’s Fundoplication, a minimally invasive surgery done with a camera, improves the quality of life of the patient. Also known as a keyhole or laparoscopic operation, this involves a few small cuts in the abdomen to carry out the operation, requiring only one night stay in the hospital. Skills of an experienced surgeon will allow GERD patients to enjoy their favourite culinary treats once again," adds Dr Nisar.
