What Is Acid Reflux Disease?
Acid reflux disease, or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) fails to close properly or opens too frequently. This allows stomach acid to move up into the esophagus, leading to symptoms like heartburn. If these symptoms occur more than twice a week, it may be diagnosed as acid reflux disease.
What leads to the development of acid reflux disease?
One common cause is a stomach abnormality called a hiatal hernia, where the upper part of the stomach and LES move above the diaphragm. This displacement can allow acid to flow into the esophagus. Other risk factors include overeating, obesity, lying down after meals, certain foods and beverages, smoking, pregnancy, and certain medications.
What Are the common Symptoms suggestive of Acid Reflux Disease?
Common symptoms include heartburn (burning pain or discomfort in the chest), regurgitation (sour or bitter-tasting acid backing up into the throat or mouth), bloating, burping, dysphagia (feeling of food stuck in the throat), hiccups, nausea, weight loss, and respiratory issues like wheezing or a chronic cough.
How is acid reflux disease identified and diagnosed?
If acid reflux symptoms occur two or more times a week or if medications don’t provide lasting relief, it’s advisable to see a doctor. Diagnosis is often based on symptoms, their response to lifestyle changes or medications, and may involve tests like barium swallow, esophageal manometry, pH monitoring, and endoscopy with biopsy.
Can diet and lifestyle modifications serve as effective treatments for acid reflux disease?
Yes, one of the most effective ways to treat acid reflux disease is to avoid trigger foods and beverages. Other lifestyle changes include eating smaller, more frequent meals, quitting smoking, elevating the head of the bed, avoiding lying down after eating, and losing weight through exercise and diet changes.
Are medications a viable option for treating acid reflux disease?
In many cases, lifestyle changes combined with antacids are sufficient to control symptoms. Medications such as H2 blockers, proton pump inhibitors, or prokinetics may also be recommended. It’s important not to take medications without a doctor’s guidance.
Is surgery ever considered in the treatment of acid reflux disease?
If medications do not completely resolve symptoms and they significantly interfere with life, surgery may be recommended as a last resort.