St. Patrick’s Day is the day that helps us to celebrate Irish heritage. So, the day is usually filled with parades, parties, wearing green, and shamrocks. The Irish are also known for drinking alcohol, so it is usually involved in all St. Patrick’s Day celebrations.
However, just because it’s a tradition doesn’t mean everyone should celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with it. Those with upper gi acid reflux associated with GERD symptoms usually try their best to reduce the side effects they will feel the next day. Or, skip out on drinking alcohol altogether.
What Is GERD and How Alcohol Affects It
The esophagus connects the mouth to the stomach. And gastroesophageal reflux disease is when that acid flows back into the esophagus. To be diagnosed, doctors will perform esophageal manometry. This studies the contractions and how the stomach moves when someone swallows.
If there is an esophageal stricture, that means there is a tightening of the esophagus when the person swallows, which can worsen reflux. It can even lead to a hiatal hernia or esophageal cancer if it goes untreated. However, one of the treatments for GERD can also lead to kidney disease.
There isn’t necessarily a cure but there are a few good treatments. The best treatment someone can do for themselves is to keep their health a priority. The healthier they live their lives, the less they will notice their GERD symptoms.
The Effects of Alcohol
For those that have GERD, consuming alcohol could cause them more harm than good. If they already have an acid reflux problem and then add alcohol on top of them, it could lead to the esophagus getting damaged.
A few other things that could happen are:
- Irritation to the lower esophageal sphincter.
- Inflammation of the stomach.
- Worsening of symptoms, including Barrett’s esophagus.
Fun Non-Alcoholic Activities to Do This St. Patrick’s Day
The good news: You can still have just as much fun on St. Patrick’s Day without any of the alcohol! When it comes to your health care and ensuring your stomach contents stay put, reducing alcohol consumption is a must. Those that want any attempt to treat GERD and reduce the amount of acid reflux and stomach acid should avoid alcohol at all costs.
There are several things you can do on St. Patrick’s Day besides drink. Some fun activities to consider are:
- Make virgin St. Patrick-tinis and mocktails.
- Take part in a parade.
- Help set up and go to a party.
- Wear green clothes.
- Watch Irish movies.
- Cook a traditional Irish dinner.
St. Patrick’s Day is a day everyone can let loose a little, even those who don’t drink alcohol. There are even non-alcoholic beers people can choose from.
Dealing with the physical toll alcohol has on your body just isn’t worth it when there are so many other ways to have fun. The best thing you can do is to not worry about it and to focus your day around all that you can do!
