Acid Reflux: Causes, Factors, Symptoms, and Treatment
What Is Acid Reflux?
Acid reflux is a long-term condition characterized by the backflow of stomach acid and contents (food particles) into the esophagus (commonly known as the food pipe). It is observed that most adults, typically, have some amount of backflow that lasts around an hour, and doesn’t show symptoms. However, if the backflow occurs regularly (more than 2 or 3 times a week) and a major symptom is acidic taste at the backend of the mouth, heartburn, chest pain, etc., it could be indicative of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), or acid reflux.
What Is The Cause of Acid Reflux?
It is observed that acid reflux is caused by poor closure of the valve mechanism between the food pipe and the stomach, technically it results due to poor closure of the Lower Esophageal Sphincter (LES).
What Are the Risk Factors of Acid Reflux?
Apart from the incomplete closing of the Lower Esophageal Sphincter, there are some of the common risk factors listed below:
- Over eating
- Caffeine (over consumption)
- Smoking
- Alcohol
- Hiatal hernia (a medical condition in which part of the stomach is above the diaphragm)
- Obesity
- Pregnancy
- Medications like sleeping pills, anti-allergic, antidepressants, etc.
Common Symptoms of Acid Reflux
The most prominent symptoms for the disease include:
- At the back of the mouth, there is an acidic taste
- Regurgitation
- Heartburn
The less prominent symptoms which can still indicate to this disease include:
- Coughing
- Chest pain
- Sore throat
Acid Reflux Complications
Long-term acid reflux can lead to a condition called Barrett’s esophagus (abnormal changes in cells at the end of the esophagus) which after some time may lead to esophageal cancer.
Acid Reflux Diagnosis
Severe conditions of acid reflux, interfering with healthy living, can be diagnosed with Endoscopy or other tests by the physician.
Acid Reflux Treatment
Acid reflux can be treated in various ways:
- Medications
- Surgery
- Food choices
- Lifestyle changes
Certain medications which are available over-the-counter (OTC) or prescribed by the physician either for temporary or extended usage have been found to be effective in treating acid reflux. In severe cases, surgery may be suggested by the physician.
If the symptoms are not severe, acid reflux can be managed or treated by making changes to food habits and/or lifestyle. Fatty, sugary (chocolates!) and spicy foods are typically considered acidic. Hence, reducing the intake of foods that are known to be high on fats, sugar, spices, etc., lowers risks of acid reflux.
It is also observed that cutting down on caffeine, carbonated beverages, and alcohol intake results in better management of stomach acid. Staggered intake of food instead of large meals is also found to be effective. Lying down immediately after a meal is also considered to contribute to acid reflux. Thus, allowing 2 to 3 hours of digestion before lying down to sleep after a meal is recommended. Raising the headboard on the bed also provides a gradient for the esophagus to facilitate normal, downward movement of food and inhibits acid reflux.
Conclusion
We see that acid reflux, if left untreated for a long time, may cause irreversible damage to the digestive system. Statistics show that around 10 to 20 % of people suffer from complications arising out of GERD, and the people between the ages of 50 -60 are at higher risk. Timely diagnosis and treatment can cure and restore a normal healthy life. Moderate exercise, proper food choice, and healthy lifestyle helps in managing acid reflux better.
Disclaimer: This article is issued in the general public interest and meant for general information purposes only. Readers are advised not to rely on the contents of the article as conclusive in nature and should research further or consult an expert in this regard.
