Gastroesophageal refers to the stomach and esophagus. Reflux means to flow back or return. Therefore, gastroesophageal reflux is the return of the stomach's contents back up into the esophagus. In normal digestion, the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) opens to allow food to pass into the stomach and closes to prevent food and acidic stomach juices from flowing back into the esophagus. Gastroesophageal reflux occurs when the LES is weak or relaxes inappropriately, allowing the stomach's contents to flow up into the esophagus. The severity of GERD depends on LES dysfunction as well as the type and amount of fluid brought up from the stomach and the neutralizing effect of saliva.
Five therapeutic methods for GERD in TCM
Pattern of Disharmony of Liver and Stomach
Therapeutic method: soothing the liver, regulating the flow of Qi, harmonizing stomach, calming the adverse-rising energy.
Pattern of Accumulation of Liver and Stomach Heat
Therapeutic method: soothing liver-qi stagnation, clearing heat and toxins in the body.
Pattern of Improper Diet Damaging Digestion
Therapeutic method: improving digestive system, harmonizing stomach, calming the adverse-rising energy.
Pattern of Spleen and Stomach Damp-heat
Therapeutic method: clearing away heat and drying dampness, regulating the spleen and stomach.
Pattern of Spleen and Stomach Qi Deficiency
Therapeutic method: invigorating the spleen and stomach to produce Qi and blood, harmonizing stomach to stop acid reflux.