22/05/2025
Acid reflux, also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) when it becomes chronic, occurs when stomach acid or bile irritates the food pipe (esophagus). This happens when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), the muscle between the stomach and esophagus, relaxes inappropriately or weakens, allowing stomach acid to flow back up into the esophagus.
Causes of Acid Reflux
Several factors can contribute to acid reflux:
Weak LES: If the LES relaxes abnormally or weakens, it allows stomach acid to escape into the esophagus.
-Obesity: Increased pressure on the stomach due to excess weight can lead to acid reflux.
-Pregnancy: Hormonal changes and the pressure of the growing baby on the stomach can trigger acid reflux.
-Hiatal hernia: A condition where part of the stomach pushes through the diaphragm, which can cause reflux.
-Certain foods: Spicy foods, chocolate, caffeine, citrus, fatty foods, and alcohol can trigger acid reflux.
-Smoking: Smoking weakens the LES and can increase acid production.
-Medications: Some medications, like NSAIDs and blood pressure drugs, can relax the LES and promote reflux.
Symptoms of Acid Reflux
Common symptoms include:
-Heartburn: A burning sensation in the chest, often after eating or at night.
-Regurgitation: Sour or bitter-tasting acid backing up into the throat or mouth.
-Chest pain: Can sometimes be mistaken for a heart attack.
-Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia): A sensation of food being stuck in the throat.
-Chronic cough or sore throat: Especially in the morning.
-Hoarseness: Due to acid irritating the voice box.
-Lump in the throat: A feeling of something stuck in the throat.
Medical Treatment for Acid Reflux
Treatment options focus on relieving symptoms, preventing damage to the esophagus, and reducing the frequency of acid reflux episodes. These may include:
Lifestyle and Dietary Changes:
Eat smaller, more frequent meals.
Avoid trigger foods and drinks like chocolate, caffeine, spicy foods, and alcohol.
Avoid eating late at night or lying down right after eating.
Elevate the head of the bed to prevent nighttime reflux.
Medications:
-Antacids: Over-the-counter products (e.g., Tums, Maalox) that neutralize stomach acid and provide quick relief.
-H2 blockers: Medications like ranitidine and famotidine reduce acid production and can provide longer-lasting relief.
-Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs): Drugs like omeprazole and esomeprazole block acid production more effectively and help heal the esophagus.
-Prokinetics: Medications like metoclopramide help strengthen the LES and speed up stomach emptying.
-Surgical Options (for severe cases):
-Fundoplication: A procedure where the top of the stomach is wrapped around the LES to prevent acid from backing up into the esophagus.
-LINX device: A small ring of magnetic beads placed around the LES to help keep it closed.
Endoscopic treatments:
Techniques such as endoscopic sewing or radiofrequency therapy can help tighten the LES.
Prevention
Maintain a healthy weight.
Avoid tight clothing around the waist.
Quit smoking.
Practice stress-relieving techniques, as stress can trigger reflux.
Avoid large meals and late-night eating.
