What is Acid Reflux?
Acid reflux disease is a condition in which the esophagus becomes irritated or inflamed because of acid backing up from the stomach. Acid reflux occurs when the acidic contents of the stomach pass up into the esophagus, and the sphincter muscle (the barrier between the two) has a defect, so it is unable to block the acid.
What are the symptoms?
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Burning in the throat or a lump in the throat
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Non-cardiac pain in the chest, especially while lying down
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Heartburn
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Upset stomach
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Pain and discomfort in the upper abdomen
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Feeling of fullness in the stomach
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Burning pain in your chest (heartburn) or upper abdomen
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Acid taste in your mouth
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Laryngitis
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Chronic cough
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Difficulty swallowing
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Nausea
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Burping
What are the Causes of Acid Reflux?
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Smoking
Smoking increases the risk of heartburn in your body.
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Pregnancy
Because the uterus increases in size during pregnancy, it presses on the stomach, creating higher pressure inside it, which increases the tendency to reflux. In addition, hormonal changes lead to relaxation of the esophageal sphincter during pregnancy.
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Stomach abnormalities
Hiatus hernias occur in the esophageal hiatus where there is a protrusion through the diaphragm up into the chest. It is a factor with some people with acid reflux disease.
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Acid reflux foods
Eating large meals or lying down right after meals can cause heartburn or trigger symptoms of an acid reflux disease. Certain foods can such as sodas and fatty foods can increase risks of acid reflux disease.
What treatments are available?
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Antacids
Antacids are usually the solution for many acid reflux sufferers. For short term and infrequent attacks of acid reflux, these provide much needed temporary relief.
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Proton pump inhibitors (PPI)
PPI blocks the secretion of acid into the stomach by the acid-secreting cells. The advantage of a PPI over an H2 antagonist is that the PPI shuts off acid production more completely and for a longer period of time.
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Foam barriers
Foam barriers are tablets that are composed of an antacid and a foaming agent.
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Endoscopies
Endoscopic treatment has the advantage of not requiring surgery. It can be performed without hospitalization. It is not clear how effective they are, especially long-term.
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Laparoscopic Surgery
A method of performing anti-reflux surgery is by laparoscopic technique whereby the surgery is accomplished through tiny holes in the belly button and upper abdomen.
Prevention
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Eat Healthy
People with heartburn should avoid or reduce consumption of foods and beverages that contain carbonated beverages, caffeine, chocolate, peppermint, spearmint, and alcohol.
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Exercise
Being overweight can increase your risk of acid reflux disease. Regular exercise helps digestion and helps you trim down.
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Ease Stress
Lowering the stress in your life may help to reduce your acid reflux disease symptoms.
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Avoid smoking
Smoking may worsen your heartburn. It also makes your body produce less saliva.
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Wear loose clothing
Get comfortable and get rid of your tight fitting clothing, as
this will only put a strain on your stomach.