Acid Reflux

Acid reflux, commonly known as heartburn, is a condition where stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing irritation and discomfort. When acid reflux becomes chronic, it is diagnosed as Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD). If left untreated, GERD can lead to serious complications, including esophageal damage and increased risk of cancer. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options can help manage the condition effectively.

Causes of Acid Reflux

Acid reflux occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) weakens or relaxes abnormally, allowing stomach acid to enter the esophagus. Several factors contribute to this dysfunction:

• Obesity: Excess weight increases pressure on the stomach, pushing acid into the esophagus.
• Hiatal Hernia: A condition where the upper part of the stomach bulges through the diaphragm, affecting LES function.
• Dietary Choices: Foods like spicy dishes, citrus fruits, chocolate, caffeine, alcohol, and fatty foods can trigger reflux.
• Smoking: Weakens the LES and increases acid production.
• Pregnancy: Hormonal changes and pressure on the stomach can lead to acid reflux.
• Certain Medications: Including NSAIDs, calcium channel blockers, and antidepressants.

Symptoms of Acid Reflux

Acid reflux can cause a variety of symptoms, including:

• Heartburn: A burning sensation in the chest, often after eating or lying down.
• Regurgitation: A sour or bitter taste in the mouth due to stomach acid backing up.
• Dysphagia: Difficulty swallowing.
• Chronic Cough: Often mistaken for respiratory issues.
• Hoarseness and Sore Throat: Due to irritation from stomach acid.
• Excessive Burping and Bloating.
• Nausea and Vomiting.

Complications of Untreated GERD

Ignoring acid reflux can lead to severe health issues, including:

• Esophagitis: Inflammation of the esophagus due to acid irritation.
• Esophageal Strictures: Narrowing of the esophagus, making swallowing difficult.
• Barrett’s Esophagus: A precancerous condition caused by chronic acid damage.
• Respiratory Problems: Such as asthma, pneumonia, and chronic cough.

If symptoms persist, consider a gastroenterology consultation to prevent complications.

Diagnosis of Acid Reflux

To confirm GERD, your doctor may recommend:

• Endoscopy: A flexible tube with a camera is inserted into the esophagus to check for inflammation or damage.
• pH Monitoring: Measures acid levels in the esophagus over 24 hours.
• Esophageal Manometry: Tests muscle contractions in the esophagus.
• Barium Swallow X-ray: Helps identify abnormalities in the esophagus and stomach.

Treatment Options for Acid Reflux

1. Lifestyle and Dietary Changes

Making simple changes can significantly reduce acid reflux symptoms:

• Eat smaller meals to reduce stomach pressure.
• Avoid lying down immediately after eating.
• Maintain a healthy weight.
• Avoid trigger foods like spicy, fatty, and acidic items.
• Elevate your bed head to prevent nighttime reflux.
• Quit smoking and reduce alcohol intake.

2. Medications

Doctors may prescribe:

• Antacids: Provide quick relief by neutralizing stomach acid.
• H2 Blockers: Reduce acid production (e.g., ranitidine, famotidine).
• Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs): Stronger acid reducers (e.g., omeprazole, esomeprazole).
• Prokinetics: Help strengthen the LES and improve stomach emptying.

3. Surgical Treatments

If lifestyle changes and medications don’t work, surgery may be necessary:

• Fundoplication: A procedure to strengthen the LES.
• LINX Device: A small magnetic ring is placed around the LES to prevent acid reflux.

Consult a gastroenterologist for personalized treatment options.

Prevention Tips

• Drink plenty of water and stay hydrated.
• Limit caffeine and alcohol intake.
• Wear loose-fitting clothes to avoid pressure on the stomach.
• Manage stress through exercise, meditation, or yoga.

When to See a Doctor

Seek medical help if you experience:

• Frequent heartburn (more than twice a week).
• Unexplained weight loss.
• Difficulty swallowing or persistent vomiting.
• Symptoms not improving with medications.

Acid reflux is a common but manageable condition. With the right lifestyle changes, medications, and professional medical advice, symptoms can be controlled effectively. Don’t ignore persistent heartburn—seek medical care early to prevent complications.

To consult a Gastroenterologist at Sparsh for acid reflux, call our helpline number 9830117733.

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Disclaimer:

No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.