Getting started with IQoro
On this page, we’ll give you an overview of how to get started with your IQoro. You will be able to understand how IQoro works and how it will treat your acid reflux symptoms.
How does IQoro work?
IQoro is a neuromuscular training device that activates the body’s own pre-programmed system for the swallowing process. IQoro activates all the 148 muscles involved in the swallowing process. Both those under your voluntary control, and those under the control of your involuntary autonomic system.
By training all these muscles, IQoro strengthens them and treats the underlying problem behind many issues, like acid reflux, snoring and different kinds of swallowing difficulties.
Read more: Why does IQoro work?
Why should I use IQoro?
IQoro is a suitable treatment for hiatus hernia and acid reflux. It treats and strengthens the weak muscles that underlies acid reflux conditions. By training with IQoro, you’ll strengthen the muscles in your face, oral cavity, throat and esophagus down to your diaphragm and stomach; all via your body’s natural communication pathways.
This way you’ll be able to train musculature that normally can’t be activated through your voluntary commands. As you train with IQoro and strengthen these muscles, you’ll address the underlying cause of your symptoms in a completely natural way.
How do I train with IQoro?
Watch this video to get a quick overview in 30 seconds of how to train with IQoro. Or read our step-by-step-guide on how to train with IQoro, if you need more detailed instructions.
What is a hiatus hernia?
Hiatal hernia means that the aperture in the diaphragm through which the esophagus passes, is widened because of a partially-, or completely weakened diaphragm.
Read more: What is a hiatus hernia?
How can an internal examination confirm a hiatus hernia?
Hiatus hernia can be confirmed by an internal examination called a gastroscopy or by X-ray, but this can be difficult.
A gastroscopy is a procedure where a special camera is used to inspect the gastrointestinal tract. The gastroscopy looks inside the beginning of the gastrointestinal tract and is performed under a light general anaesthetic.
When your doctor performs an internal examination she or he may be looking primarily to rule out other more serious conditions than hiatus hernia. The following signs would point to a sliding hiatus hernia:
- Redness of the mucous membrane in the lower esophagus. This is because stomach acid has caused burns.
- White bubbly secretion in the esophagus. This is due to the protection that the glands of the esophageal wall create to try to protect themselves against corrosive stomach acid.
Considered together with your other symptoms, a diagnosis of hiatus hernia can be predicted.
What if I’ve not had a hiatus hernia diagnosed?
Hiatus hernia is difficult to diagnose with certainty. A sliding hiatus hernia (90% of all cases) is by its nature intermittent and because it comes and goes, it does not always exhibit at the time of examination. The main reason for a gastroscopy is often to rule out other serious conditions, not just to try to confirm a hiatus hernia.
IQoro can be used to treat those with a confirmed and unconfirmed hiatus hernia.
The scientific studies behind IQoro always distinguish between these two different groups. Both have the same symptoms and treatment and all experience positive results.
Do I use IQoro instead of taking my medication?
If your GP has prescribed PPI medication, you should not cease it just because you have started training with IQoro.
The medication has an important role in reducing the damage that your refluxed stomach acids can otherwise cause to your esophagus, throat, vocal cords and other vulnerable tissue. It will not address the underlying problem, but it may help you avoid more serious problems.
IQoro training will address the underlying muscular cause of your acid reflux. But training muscles takes time. In the scientific studies shown on our website, IQoro users ceased their PPI use in the majority of cases (up to 92%) before the end of the training period – but this was 6 to 8 months. Some will get earlier relief, but others won’t.
Think of IQoro as a medium-term treatment, and medicine as an immediate relief that you can reduce in dosage as symptoms reduce. As always, if in doubt, consult with your doctor before changing dosage.
How do I keep my IQoro clean?
Read our instructions to keep your IQoro clean: Cleaning of your IQoro device
When my reflux has stopped will I still need to train?
As you have been improving muscular weakness, then maintenance training will be required.
Once you have achieved your desired result you should continue to train most probably with a reduced number of sessions per day. You’ll need to find what is right for you that stops your symptoms returning.
Where can I get further help and support?
The IQoro Customer Support helpdesk is manned by experts to help you.
You can also find answers to frequently asked questions in our IQoro FAQ
In our Facebook group, Training With IQoro, you’ll find many more training videos and gain support from other IQoro users, including those who have already successfully treated their acid reflux.