GERD — It Is Not Only a Stomach Acid Problem
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Why acid suppressants alone are not enough
A burning sensation in the chest, sour fluid rising up to the throat, chronic cough and a hoarse voice — these are classic symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Many patients take proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), but symptoms often return as soon as the medication is stopped. This is because excess stomach acid is not the only cause.
The Korean medicine view: failure of stomach qi to descend (胃氣不降)
In Korean traditional medicine, GERD is interpreted as failure of stomach qi to descend (胃氣不降) — the qi of the stomach, which should naturally move downward, instead moves upward. Stress, overeating, and irregular eating habits reverse this flow, allowing acid and food contents to rise back up.
Treatment tailored to the cause
- Liver-Stomach disharmony (肝胃不和): When stress is the main cause. Sihosogan-san and Jwageum-hwan are used to relieve Liver qi and calm the Stomach.
- Spleen-Stomach deficiency cold (脾胃虛寒): When digestive power itself is weak. Yijung-tang and Hyangsa-yukgunja-tang warm and tonify the Spleen and Stomach.
- Stomach yin deficiency (胃陰不足): When stomach fluids have dried up. Maekmundong-tang and Ikwi-tang replenish stomach yin.
- Acupuncture: Stimulating Zhongwan (CV12), Neiguan (PC6), and Zusanli (ST36) normalizes gastrointestinal motility.
Daily lifestyle management
Lifestyle correction is essential alongside medical treatment.
- Do not lie down for at least 2–3 hours after eating
- Avoid overeating; have small, frequent meals
- Raise the upper body about 15 degrees during sleep
- Reduce coffee, carbonated drinks, fatty foods, and chocolate
- Avoid tight clothing and belts
Once the underlying cause is treated, you can regain comfortable digestion without relying on acid suppressants.