Is there a cure for Acid Reflux?

 

Acid reflux or GERD is a common health issue. It can affect both women and mens health. It is regurgitation 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 incompetent acid reflux will result. This is called gastro-esophageal reflux disease or GERD.

So can you cure your acid reflux? If there is true lower esophageal incompetence, then there is no cure. You will need maintenance treatment with acid suppressants like 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. Consider eliminating these factors that may impact on acid reflux before seeing your doctor or taking over the counter acid suppressants. A lifestyle change is sometimes all you need.

Obesity can cause or contribute to acid reflux. 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. An important aspect of GERD treatment is losing weight.

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. Wear loose clothes and your reflux symptoms may go away.

A large meal entering the stomach will increase the pressure on the LES and can trigger acid reflux. It has happened to us all at some time or other. Gastric clearance time is also increased by large volume allowing more opportunity for reflux. Eating smaller portions more frequently will counter this problem.

Acid Reflux can be affected by certain foods. Cow’s milk protein intolerance can cause esophagitis. It is called Allergic Eosinophilic Esophagitis. This is controlled by removing cow’s milk protein from the diet. 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 hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and the contraceptive pill. 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. Certain drugs ie tetracycline are corrosive to the lining of the esophagus. Tablets and capsules (gelcaps) can get stuck in the esophagus. Always drink a glass of water to wash the medication down. Avoid taking medication while lying down. It is best for GERD patients to take drugs standing or sitting up and avoid lying down immediately after.

Smoking relaxes the LES and nicotine is corrosive to esophageal lining. Stop smoking and your GERD might improve.

Acid Reflux risk is increased by certain exercises. Competitive weightlifting and cycling can do this. Joggers can develop acid reflux symptoms.

If by eliminating all the risk factors, your symptoms disappear, then you have actually cured your acid reflux. However, if the symptoms persist, the next step is a visit to your doctor.

 

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Filed under: Nutrition

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