Hospital launches awareness drive on GERD and other digestive disorders

Obesity, a leading cause of increasing number of gastric issues

Providing free Consultations with the Gastroenterologist during March

Driven by a rising incidence of obesity in the UAE, gastric issues – such as Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) – are becoming more common, a problem that should not be taken lightly. People suffering from GERD, indigestion, acidity,bloating and heartburn need to see their doctor to help find the root cause of the problem and address it as soon as possible so that we can avoid complications later, stressed Dr Syed Naveed Azam, Consultant Gastroenterologist at RAK Hospital.

In order to create awareness around GERD and other gastric issues, RAK Hospital in Ras Al Khaimah will be offering free consultation with the Hospital's gastroenterologist on 14th, 21st and 28th of March. The camp is particularly useful for those who are suffering from acidity, vomiting, indigestion, constipation and abdominal pain, among other gastric issues. The hospital is also offering 50 percent discount on diagnostics.

“GERD occurs when the acids from our stomach flows back into our esophagus(food pipe), irritating its lining and causing discomfort,” explained Dr Azam, “Sometimes it happens once a year or a month, and at times it is more frequent. While it is not a reason to worry if it happens once in a while and can be curtailed through medication and lifestyle changes, people need to see a doctor if the condition persists for longer periods or affecting the day to day quality of life."

As per a recent news report, more than 45 percent of UAE residents are overweight, a number that seems to be on the rise. While obesity is one of the biggest factors that can cause GERD, Dr Azam advises that people who are taking heart and diabetes medications, painkillers, and antidepressants need to be careful as well, since the medication can sometimes contribute to GERD, upset the stomach and cause indigestion.

Symptoms of GERD include heartburn, difficulty in swallowing food, disrupted sleep, regurgitation of food, burping, chronic cough, asthma, chest pain and so on. The chest pain in particular could be difficult to differentiate from a heart attack and therefore shouldbe taken seriously. 

"Awareness regarding obesity and its repercussions can never be stressed enough. The camp across the different days on March is to wake people to the looming health issues that are easily avoidable. Consultation is the first step towards identifying the problem and we hope that more UAE residents will avail the offer", added Dr Raza Siddiqui, CEO Arabian Healthcare Group and Executive Director of RAK Hospital.