14 Nov 09 Is there a cure for Acid Reflux?

 

Acid reflux or GERD is an important health issue. It can affect both women and mens health. In this condition, there is reflux of stomach content high in acid into the esophagus. Reflux is prevented by the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) which remains tightly closed and opens when peristaltic waves herald the imminent arrival of swallowed food. When the lower esophageal sphincter becomes faulty acid reflux will result. This is called GERD or gastro-esophageal reflux disease.

Is it possible to cure your acid reflux? If it is due to true LES incompetence, then there is no cure. In LES incompetence, you need maintenance acid suppressant treatment such as omeprazole, or surgical treatment like fundoplication will relieve your symptoms if very severe or you develop secondary problems.

There are, however, various factors that can affect the efficiency of the LES and acid reflux. Eliminating these factors may avoid a trip to your doctor or taking over the counter medication. A lifestyle change is sometimes all you need.

Obesity can cause or contribute to GERD. It is more likely in the apple type distribution of weight. The extra weight increases bulk in the upper abdomen and makes it difficult for the esophagus to discharge food effectively into the stomach. In addition hiatus hernia is more common in obese individuals. The LES can be weakened by a hiatus hernia. Losing weight is an important aspect of GERD treatment.

Wearing tight fitting clothes can cause acid reflux especially if it is two sizes too small. The pressure exerted on the stomach may force acid back up into the esophagus. Your symptoms will improve if you wear loose clothes.

A large meal entering the stomach will increase the pressure on the LES and can cause acid reflux. We all experience this at some time or other. The large volume also increases gastric clearance time allowing more opportunity for reflux. Eating smaller portions more frequently will counter this problem.

Certain foods can affect GERD. Allergic Eosinophilic Esophagitis is an inflammation caused by cow’s milk intolerance. Removing cow’s milk protein from your diet will control this. Other foods such as fats, coffee, alcohol, tea and some spices can affect the lower esophageal sphincter.

The lower esophageal sphincter can be affected by some drugs and cause acid reflux. These drugs include broncho-dilators such as theophylline, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID), tri-cyclic antidepressants ie amitryptilline and drugs for Parkinson’s disease.

Acid reflux is affected by female hormones. Women on hormones, in a Scandinavian Study had increased risk of GERD. These drugs include the contraceptive pill and hormone replacement therapy (HRT). The peristaltic waves in the esophagus can be slowed down by sedatives and tranquillisers and can affect clearance of food from the esophagus.

If you have GERD, opt for liquid medication. Tetracycline and certain other drugs are corrosive to the esophageal lining. Tablets and capsules (gelcaps) can lodge in the esophagus. Make it a habit to drink a glass of water to wash the medication down. Avoid taking medication while lying down. GERD patients should always take drugs standing or sitting up and avoid lying down immediately after.

Nicotine in corrosive to the esophageal lining and also relaxes the LES. Stop smoking and your acid reflux might improve.

Acid Reflux risk is increased by certain exercises. This is the case in competitive weightlifting and cycling. Joggers can develop acid reflux symptoms.

If you have acid reflux symptoms, look at all the potential risk factors and eliminate them. If by doing so, your symptoms disappear, you have actually cured your acid reflux. However, if the symptoms persist, the next step is a visit to your doctor.

 

Tags: acid reflux, acid reflux treatment, health