What is Acid Reflux Syndrome?
Acid Reflux Syndrome occurs when acid and other materials flow back (reflux) into the stomach from the esophagus. This is an unnatural condition that causes pain and discomfort. It is also known as Gastro Esophageal Disease (GERD). The esophagus is the tube-like structure that connects the throat and the stomach.
In a lot of cases, the refluxed materials remain in the lower part of the esophagus leading to heartburn and nausea. At times, the refluxed substances are forced into the mouth, causing a burning sensation in the throat. It is a painful experience that can damage the esophagus. Thus, it’s not a condition to be taken lightly or ignored. The acid in the refluxed material may wear out the lining of the esophagus over time, and can even lead to cancer.
Causes of Acid Reflux
The following are the major causes of acid reflux (known as AR for short):
-Defective lower esophageal sphincter
-Hiatal hernia
-Pregnancy
-Peptic ulcer and insufficient digestive enzymes
–Asthma
-Certain lifestyle patterns
Let’s look at each of these in more detail.
Defective Lower Esophageal Sphincter: The Esophageal Sphincter is a tough rim of muscle at the base of the esophagus. When it’s not functioning properly this can lead to AR. When we eat, the sphincter contracts and serves to keep food in the stomach, preventing it from spilling back into the throat and mouth. If it is not strong enough to force the food into the stomach and relaxes, the food and acid can reflux causing heartburn, burning in the throat and an acidic taste in the mouth.
Hiatal Hernia occurs when the upper part of the stomach moves into the chest (through a small opening in the diaphragm). This can greatly impair the functioning of the lower esophagus sphincter. Hiatal Hernia is usually caused by severe coughing, vomiting, straining or physical exertion. It can also be caused by obesity and pregnancy.
Pregnancy: Some women may experience acid reflux during pregnancy. This is because the baby presses on the stomach, resulting in some of the contents spilling back into the esophagus. Fortunately, once the baby is born, the condition would normally stop.
Peptic ulcer and insufficient digestive enzymes: Both slow down the digestive process resulting in an accumulation of acids in the stomach, which may reflux into the esophagus.
Asthma: It’s not really clear if asthma is a causative factor. The theory is that the coughing and sneezing can cause changes in the chest, which can impact the lower chest and consequently the esophagus – resulting in reflux.
Lifestyle patterns such as smoking, stress, overeating and eating a diet high in salt and fatty foods can cause AR. Staying away from smoking, caffeine and other unhealthy substances will help prevent the condition if it’s caused solely by lifestyle patterns.
Acid Reflux Symptoms
The most common symptoms are heartburn, regurgitation and dyspepsia. Let’s take each one and describe how they’re experienced.
Heartburn: The pain does not actually affect the heart. It affects the stomach, abdomen and the chest. It’s a burning pain that can be very uncomfortable.
Regurgitation: This is the experience of having the acid backing up into the throat or mouth. It can lead to vomiting and leaves a sour, acidic and bitter taste in the mouth.
Dyspepsia: This is the medical term for stomach discomfort and it manifests as burping, nausea after eating and stomach bloating.
Acid Reflux Treatment Options
The first and most vital step is to see a doctor (please avoid self-medication). X-rays may need to be taken to know the actual state of the condition and thus ascertain what damage has been done already. Only then can one start looking at the options available. Proper and professional diagnosis is essential before treatment options can be examined.
Apart from the use of prescribed acid reflux medication, in order to experience lasting changes the sufferer may need to change his or her lifestyle. He or she may need to avoid certain drinks, foods and substances. Antacid is usually prescribed to reduce the level of acidity in the stomach. In some cases Alginic acid is prescribed, which serves to create a protective covering for the stomach and the lining of the esophagus, giving the damaged cells the opportunity to regenerate. Another drug that serves a similar function is Sulcrafate.
In severe cases, surgery may be prescribed. The procedure is known as Nissen Fundoplication where the stomach is tightened near the lower esophagus sphincter to prevent the reverse flow of food from the stomach to the esophagus.
Then of course there are acid reflux remedies that have been passed down from the old days that you can try, to see if they work for you.
Foods to Avoid with Acid Reflux
For those that experience AR, it is best to avoid the following foods:
-Citrus fruits
-Chocolate
-Caffeinated drinks or alcohol
-Spicy, fatty, or fried foods
-Garlic and onion
-Peppermint
-Tomatoes
Conclusion
We’ve explored the causes of acid reflux syndrome, some of the treatments options and what to avoid if one has the condition. One of the vital take-aways is the role that one’s lifestyle can play in the cause of this painful condition. Eating well and avoiding harmful substances like cigarettes can help in the quest for a better life.