Acid Reflux
All about acid reflux
Acid reflux (a condition that also goes by the names gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD, gastroespohageal disorder and acid reflux disorder) is a painful condition that occurs when acids from the stomach flow upward into the esophagus. While the lining of your stomach is strong enough to handle these acids, the esophagus is not, so a burning sensation occurs.
Acid reflux is typically considered a chronic condition, which means once you experience it, you will likely have bouts of it for the rest of your life. Fortunately, the more you learn about acid reflux, the more measures you can take to control it.
Causes and Symptoms of Acid Reflux
It's believed that the cause of acid reflux is a weakening of the barrier between the stomach and the esophagus, which allows stomach acids to pass into the esophagus. It is a fairly common condition, though most cases are usually mild. For those with severe cases, risk factors include ulcers, coughing and asthma, as well as a condition called Barrett's Esophagus, which is a form of cancer of the esophagus.
Symptoms of acid reflux (the common and less severe kind) include heartburn after meals or when lying down, regurgitation (bringing up of refluxed liquids into your mouth) and nausea. These symptoms will range in severity and will likely reoccur if a treatment plan is not established or adhered to.
Treatment of Acid Reflux
There is a big connection between acid reflux and diet, so your doctor will likely start your treatment by reviewing and adjusting your eating habits. Smaller meals are encouraged to lessen stomach bloat and to ensure that the stomach is emptied after an evening meal. Your doctor may also recommend that you reduce your intake of fatty foods, quit smoking, and identify and eliminate your "trigger foods" (such as spicy foods or citrus juices).
In severe cases of acid reflux, doctors may need to prescribe drugs or perform a surgical procedure called fundoplication, in which the top part of the stomach is wrapped around the lower part of the esophagus, to help manage the condition. Again, this is only necessary in cases of chronic or severe acid reflux.
Aside from seeking treatment from your doctor and adhering to a tailored diet, acid reflux home remedy options you can try include elevating your head slightly when you sleep, avoiding eating right before bed, taking antacids when you feel an occurrence of acid reflux coming on and chewing gum to create acid-neutralizing saliva.
