What is Reflux?
Reflux disease is a condition that occurs when stomach contents leak back into the esophagus. This condition often causes stomach acid to leak back into the esophagus, causing symptoms such as a burning sensation, heartburn, and chest pain. Reflux occurs when the sphincter muscle at the lower end of the esophagus relaxes. Other common symptoms include burning in the throat, hoarseness, chronic cough and an acidic taste in the mouth. Excess weight, sleeping positions, certain foods and drinks, smoking and stress can trigger reflux symptoms. Lifestyle changes and medication can help manage symptoms.
Reflux Treatment
Reflux treatment includes both lifestyle changes and medication. Lifestyle changes include not going to bed immediately after a meal, reducing food portions, losing excess weight, and avoiding trigger foods and drinks (e.g., caffeine, acidic drinks, spicy foods). Medication usually includes medications to reduce stomach acid; these include proton pump inhibitors (PPI) and H2 receptor blockers. In some cases, antacids also provide symptomatic relief. In severe or chronic cases, surgical intervention may be required. Doctor's advice and regular follow-up are critical to the effectiveness of the treatment.
Reflux Symptoms
Symptoms of reflux disease include chest burning, sourness, stomach contents coming into the mouth, sore throat, chronic cough, hoarseness and shortness of breath. These symptoms usually increase after meals and when lying down.
Causes of Reflux
Factors that cause reflux include relaxation of the gastric sphincter, excess weight, pregnancy, certain foods and beverages (e.g. caffeine, acidic drinks, spicy foods), smoking, and the use of certain medications. Additionally, lying down immediately after eating can also trigger reflux symptoms.
Reflux and Nutrition
The diet for reflux patients includes avoiding acidic and fatty foods, caffeine, chocolate and spicy foods. Consumption of alcohol and carbonated drinks should be limited. Eating small, frequent meals reduces the burden on the stomach and may relieve symptoms.
Reflux Complications
Left untreated, chronic reflux can lead to long-term damage and erosion of the esophagus. This condition may increase the risk of esophageal narrowing, Barrett's esophagus, and rarely, esophageal cancer. Therefore, medical attention is important if symptoms persist or worsen.
Frequently Asked Questions About Reflux
Reflux is a condition in which stomach contents, especially stomach acid, leak back into the esophagus. This occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter relaxes or does not work properly, causing symptoms such as a burning sensation, rancidity, and sometimes chest pain.
Symptoms of reflux include heartburn, sourness, stomach acid coming into the mouth, sore throat, chronic cough, hoarseness and difficulty swallowing. These symptoms usually increase after meals and especially when lying down.
Factors that cause reflux include weakness of the gastric sphincter, excess weight, pregnancy, consumption of certain foods and beverages, smoking and use of certain medications. Additionally, lying down or bending over after eating can trigger reflux symptoms.
Lifestyle changes and medication are essential in the treatment of reflux. Lifestyle changes include losing weight, standing upright after meals, avoiding trigger foods and drinks, and elevating the head of the bed. Drug therapy usually includes acid-regulating medications (proton pump inhibitors and H2 blockers).
Yes, left untreated, chronic reflux can lead to erosion and long-term damage to the esophagus. This condition may increase the risk of esophageal narrowing, Barrett's esophagus, and rarely, esophageal cancer.
Recommended lifestyle changes to deal with reflux include losing weight, avoiding trigger foods and drinks (spicy foods, acidic drinks, caffeine), staying upright after meals, and waiting at least three hours before going to bed.
