What is GERD?

• GERD occurs when stomach acid flows into the esophagus, the tube that connects the mouth and stomach.
• When refluxed stomach acid hits the lining of the esophagus, it causes a burning sensation in the chest or throat known as heartburn.

What are the symptoms.. Why do they increase in Ramadan?

Reflux esophagitis affects a large percentage of people, and its symptoms include:

• Backing up of stomach acids into the mouth.
• Chest pain.
• Hoarseness or sore throat.
• Sour or bitter taste in the mouth.
• Difficulty breathing.
• dry cough.
• Tightness in throat.
• Difficulty swallowing.
• A feeling of choking or a lump in the throat.
• The problems of this disease increase during the month of Ramadan, due to the change in structure and diet.

How should a fasting person manage GERD ailments to ensure healthy and proper fasting?

Gastroenterology and liver disease consultant, Muhannad Al-Aqla, in an interview with “Sky News Arabia”, confirmed that the incidence of GERD increases significantly during Ramadan, in which fasting people should follow precise advice:

• Break the fast with a light meal such as dates, water or light soup.
• Divide breakfast into two portions, the second portion should be eaten about an hour or an hour and a half later.
• Avoid fatty foods like fried foods and sweets.
• Drink more juices and drinks with meals.
• Do not sleep immediately after the pre-dawn meal, wait an hour or an hour and a half.

Fasting is a relief from the suffering of GERD.. but a condition

At the end of his speech to “Sky News Arabia”, Al-Aqla emphasized, “Those suffering from the disease must adhere to precise medical recommendations and advice during Ramadan, especially since many of them find solace in fasting. , they must adhere to specific types and amounts of food.”