It is a condition that occurs when stomach contents flow back into the esophagus. Gastroesophageal reflux, It can cause stomach acid to damage the esophagus. Symptoms include heartburn, indigestion, and a burning sensation in the throat. It usually increases after meals or at bedtime. It is associated with factors such as eating habits, obesity and pregnancy. Treatment includes lifestyle changes, medications, and sometimes surgery.
What are the symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux?
Heartburn is the most common symptom. A burning sensation is felt behind the breastbone, approximately in the middle of the ribcage. A feeling of difficulty or obstruction when swallowing gastroesophageal reflux is a symptom. Burning or acid taste sensation in the throat. The regurgitation of stomach contents into the esophagus is usually accompanied by a bitter or sour-sweet sensation. Chronic cough may increase, especially at night. This cough may be caused by acid backing up into the respiratory tract. Pain or tightness in the chest can sometimes resemble symptoms of a heart attack.
A feeling of a foreign body in the throat is often accompanied by difficulty swallowing. Chronic hoarseness or change in voice. Acid reflux can erode tooth enamel, which can lead to tooth sensitivity and decay. In the lying position in bed, acid may leak back into the esophagus. In this case, symptoms increase during sleep at night. Symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux may vary from person to person. In some people, symptoms may be milder or more severe. If you have one or more of these symptoms, it is important to consult a doctor.
What Causes Gastroesophageal Reflux?
Some foods and drinks (spicy food, chocolate, alcohol) cause increased stomach acid. It may also cause relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter. In individuals carrying excess weight, abdominal pressure may increase, making it easier for stomach contents to leak back into the esophagus. During pregnancy, increased hormone levels and a growing uterus increase the chance of stomach acid leaking into the esophagus. Smoking can increase stomach acid secretion and impair the function of the lower esophageal sphincter.
Stress can increase the secretion of stomach acid. In some people gastroesophageal reflux may trigger symptoms. In some cases, esophageal motility (the proper compression and relaxation of the esophagus) may be impaired. This may increase the risk. If gastric emptying is slower than normal, stomach contents may remain in the stomach for longer. This can increase reflux. Reflux is a condition that occurs through the interaction of a number of factors. It usually occurs as a result of a combination of several different factors.
How to Treat Gastroesophageal Reflux?
Review your eating habits. Avoid acidic, spicy, fatty or acid-forming foods and drinks. Do not lie down or lie down after meals. Spend at least 2-3 hours standing or sitting after meals. Elevate your bed head. Sleeping with beds or pillows that elevate your head prevents acid from backing up into the esophagus. Do not smoke and limit alcohol consumption. Losing excess weight may help reduce symptoms.
Proton pump inhibitors reduce acid production. It prevents stomach acid from flowing back into the esophagus. Histamine receptor blockers (H2 blockers) reduce the release of stomach acid. Antacids can be used to relieve symptoms. Surgical options are rarely used. It is usually considered if other treatment methods do not work or if there are serious complications. A procedure called fundoplication is done to wrap the lower part of the stomach around the esophagus, preventing acid from refluxing. Some procedures performed with endoscopy, gastroesophageal reflux relieves symptoms. These procedures include Stretta, transoral incisional fundoplication. Treatment should be personalized. Therefore, it is important to consult a doctor to evaluate your symptoms and health condition.
