The Surprising Link Between GERD and Back Pain Between Shoulder Blades

What is GERD?

GERD, or gastroesophageal reflux disease, is a digestive disorder that causes acid reflux and heartburn. It occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing irritation and inflammation. Want to know more about the subject? heartburn back pain between shoulder blades, uncover additional and valuable information that will enrich your understanding of the topic discussed.

Typical GERD Symptoms

The most common symptoms of GERD are acid reflux, heartburn, and regurgitation. These symptoms usually occur after a meal, especially if the patient has eaten spicy or fatty foods, or drinks alcohol or caffeine.

Back Pain Between Shoulder Blades as an Unusual Symptom of GERD

While acid reflux and heartburn are usual symptoms of GERD, back pain between shoulder blades may not seem an obvious sign of this condition. However, according to recent studies, there is a significant link between GERD and upper back pain, which is coloquially referred to as “heartburn back”.

How GERD Causes Back Pain Between Shoulder Blades

When acid reflux occurs, the stomach acid irritates the lower part of the esophagus and the upper part of the stomach. The thoracic spine, which is located between the neck and the lumbar spine and goes through the chest and upper back, is innervated by the same spinal nerves that innervate these digestive organs. As a result, the stomach acid irritation can cause referred pain in the upper back and between shoulder blades.

How to Manage GERD-Related Back Pain Between Shoulder Blades

If you experience back pain between shoulder blades, especially after eating or when lying down, and you also have symptoms of GERD, it is important to seek medical attention. A gastroenterologist can diagnose GERD through a physical exam, an endoscopy, or a pH test, and can recommend lifestyle changes or medications to alleviate your symptoms.

Some common methods to treat GERD include:

Avoiding trigger foods: Spicy or fatty foods, citrus fruits and juices, and coffee, tea or carbonated beverages can make GERD symptoms worse. Try eliminating these foods and drinks from your diet or consuming them in moderation.

Not lying down after eating: Wait at least 2-3 hours after a meal before lying down, and elevate the head of your bed by 6-8 inches, using a wedge pillow, or a block or brick under the bedposts.

Losing weight: Excess weight puts pressure on the stomach and can worsen GERD symptoms. Consult with your doctor or a nutritionist to create a healthy diet plan.

Medications: Your doctor may prescribe over-the-counter antacids, H2 receptor blockers, or proton pump inhibitors to reduce stomach acid and relieve GERD symptoms.

It is important to note that GERD can lead to severe complications, such as esophagitis, Barrett’s esophagus, and even esophageal cancer, if left untreated or unmanaged. Therefore, it is important to see a healthcare professional if you experience persistent GERD symptoms, especially back pain between shoulder blades. Delve further into the topic by reading this carefully chosen external resource. gerd back pain between shoulder blades.

Conclusion

GERD is a digestive disorder that affects millions of people worldwide, causing acid reflux, heartburn, and regurgitation as typical symptoms. However, back pain between shoulder blades can also be a sign of GERD, as the thoracic spine and digestive organs share the same nerves. If you experience this symptom along with GERD symptoms, such as acid reflux and heartburn, it is important to seek medical attention to manage your condition and prevent complications.

Discover more information in the related posts we’ve gathered for you:

Click for additional details on this subject

Delve into this valuable study