Gastroesophageal reflux is an annoying disorder characterized by the involuntary ascent of the gastric contents into the esophagus, accompanied by a burning sensation at the height of the sternum. It can be caused by smoking, overeating, stress or the consumption of certain foods. Although in some cases the pain is unbearable, it can be relieved by using the anti-inflammatory and healing properties of aloe vera juice. By incorporating it into your daily diet, you should begin to feel some relief within a few days. However, consult your doctor before taking it and especially if you have any severe symptoms or side effects.
Steps
Part 1 of 2: Take Aloe Vera Orally
Step 1. Choose aloe vera juice free of aloin and aloe latex
Find the best quality organic juice on the Internet, at the pharmacy or herbalist's shop. Read the label to find out if it is suitable for oral consumption; it should not be formulated for topical use. Check the ingredients to make sure it does not contain aloin, aloe latex, and artificial preservatives. Look out for "latex-free" or "aloin-free" to make sure you can ingest it safely.
- You can buy aloe juice online or at a pharmacy.
- If the package says that the juice was prepared using the whole leaf, avoid buying it as it may contain aloe latex or aloin.
Warning:
aloe latex and aloin can cause kidney damage and tumors. Furthermore, aloe latex can be fatal even at a dose of 1 gram per day taken for several days.
Step 2. Drink 10ml of juice per day
Take it in the morning, about 20 minutes before breakfast, and continue every day to reduce the symptoms of GERD. You should start to feel some relief after a few days, but it may take up to a couple of weeks to take effect.
- Aloe juice is likely to leave a bitter taste in the mouth. In this case, if you want to disguise it, try diluting the juice in a glass of water.
- Store it in the refrigerator after opening it. After two weeks, throw away what you have not consumed.
Step 3. Stop taking aloe juice if you have stomach cramps or diarrhea
Aloe can cause these side effects, although not in all people. If you experience stomach pain or unexplained diarrhea, stop taking it for a few days to see if you are better. In this case, it means that the malaise depended on the aloe. However, if symptoms persist, consult your doctor immediately.
Aloe can have a laxative effect, so be careful not to take more than one dose
Part 2 of 2: Knowing When to See Your Doctor
Step 1. See your doctor if your symptoms don't improve after two weeks
Before making a diagnosis, he will evaluate the symptoms and clinical history. If he suspects a more serious condition, he may also order diagnostic tests. You should also consult it if gastroesophageal reflux is accompanied by the following symptoms:
- Persistent nausea or vomiting
- Painful swallowing
- Loss of appetite resulting in weight loss.
Step 2. Consult your gynecologist if you are pregnant and suffer from reflux
It is normal for GERD to occur during pregnancy, so you are not the only one. Fortunately, the gynecologist can help you choose the most suitable treatment. Tell him about heartburn and tell him how often it occurs. In order to find relief, keep track of the foods or activities that may be promoting this malaise.
Do not use any remedies, including aloe vera, without first consulting your gynecologist
Step 3. Call Emergency Health Services if you have chest pain or pressure sensation accompanied by pain in the arm or jaw
While you're definitely in no danger, pain in your arm and jaw could indicate a mild heart attack. Contact your doctor and explain your symptoms to find out if you need urgent help.
Don't panic, as these symptoms can be caused by a variety of medical conditions. Only a doctor is able to diagnose the cause and, therefore, offer you treatment
Step 4. Ask your doctor if he can prescribe a drug for you
If you've tried over-the-counter or natural remedies and never found relief, your doctor may suggest a more targeted drug. For example, they may prescribe a histamine H2-receptor antagonist or a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) to counteract stomach acid hypersecretion and aid in the healing of the esophagus. Whatever he prescribes for you, take it following his instructions exactly.
- These drugs can also be sold without a prescription. If you have already tried a molecule belonging to these classes of medicines but without success, your doctor will prescribe another one.
- Ask about the potential side effects, such as nutrient malabsorption. Your doctor may be able to tell you how to avoid problems related to this.
- In rare cases, the doctor may recommend a surgery called fundoplication which involves narrowing the lower esophageal sphincter to prevent gastric contents from rising.
Step 5. Ask your doctor if you can start a diet that relieves gastroesophageal reflux
If you can't find a solution to your problem, consult your doctor to find out if he recommends a diet that can relieve the symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). In this case, eat less and more often throughout the day rather than having three full meals. Try to limit fatty, spicy, or fried foods, but also chocolate, garlic, onions, citrus fruits, and alcohol.
Keep track of the foods you eat so you can pinpoint the foods that trigger reflux
Advice
Before you start taking aloe vera, check with your doctor to make sure it doesn't interact with any other medications you may be taking
Warnings
- Aloe vera can cause abdominal pain or diarrhea. Stop taking it and see your doctor if you notice any problems.
- Avoid products that contain aloin or aloe latex as they can cause kidney problems, cancer, or even death.
