Learn more about the causes, symptoms, and treatment of Acid Reflux with this article. If you suffer from Acid Reflux, you’ve likely wondered if there’s an easy cure. Luckily, there is. Learn about Acid Reflux treatment and prevention from the experts at WebMD. Keep reading for tips on treating Acid Reflux and other gastrointestinal problems. We’ll also cover complications and how to prevent Acid Reflux from coming back.
Symptoms
Symptoms of acid reflux disease (GERD) can range from a mild burning sensation in the chest to severe, life-altering symptoms such as esophageal bleeding, ulcers, and chronic cough. Even more serious, GERD can lead to severe conditions such as Barrett’s esophagus and esophageal cancer. For this reason, proper diagnosis and treatment are essential.
People with GERD are more prone to experiencing acid reflux than those without the condition. The majority of people with the condition experience heartburn. This discomfort is felt inside the chest, usually after eating or lying down. If the discomfort is intense, it may even make people think they’re having a heart attack. If this happens, seek immediate medical attention. The best way to get relief is through an effective acid reflux treatment.
Certain lifestyle habits are also known to contribute to the development of heartburn. Smoking, alcohol consumption, and greasy food are all known triggers. Eating less of these foods can also improve symptoms. People who regularly drink coffee or take alcoholic drinks should reduce their intake of these beverages and eat fewer acidic foods. Symptoms of acid reflux may be worse with certain medicines, and people with GERD should speak with their doctor before taking any medication.
Treatment
The American College of Gastroenterology reports that approximately 60 million Americans experience acid reflux at least once a month. Some may even experience it every day. While it can happen to anyone, pregnant women and overweight people are especially susceptible to the condition. Learn about some of the different ways you can treat acid reflux. Here are some of the most common methods. And remember, the most important factor is knowing when and where to start. So how do you know when acid reflux is affecting you?
A common solution for acid reflux is lifestyle changes. People with this condition often experience heartburn and burning in the chest, especially after a meal. Lifestyle changes and over-the-counter medicines may also help. Consult your ENT doctor if you are experiencing more frequent symptoms. If you suspect that your symptoms are caused by acid reflux, you should consider undergoing tests to determine the cause of your condition. In some cases, lifestyle changes may be all that is necessary to help relieve your symptoms.
Complications
In addition to the pain and discomfort associated with acid reflux, other GERD complications include esophageal strictures, ulcerations, and Barrett’s esophagus, a precancerous change in the lining of the esophagus. Patients with chronic acid reflux should seek medical attention if symptoms persist or worsen. These complications often include difficulty swallowing, weight loss, and anemia. If you are experiencing these symptoms, you should schedule an upper endoscopy to diagnose the condition.
As the lining of the esophagus and throat is constantly being affected by the acid produced in the stomach, healing takes time. Over time, irritated vocal folds, throat, and esophagus can become inflamed and can even lead to cancer. Dietary factors also play a role in acid reflux, since some foods irritate the lining of the esophagus and trigger a reaction in the stomach.
Prevention
Taking steps to prevent acid reflux is a key part of treating this condition. One way to do this is to make certain lifestyle changes. Many physicians recommend that patients lose weight, which takes pressure off the diaphragm and LES muscle. Another key acid reflux remedy is to quit drinking alcohol, which irritates the esophageal lining. Another acid reflux prevention tip is to eat smaller, frequent meals throughout the day.
Foods and drinks that trigger reflux include alcoholic beverages, citrus fruits, and carbonated drinks. Spiced foods, like peppermint or spearmint, are also common triggers. Some over-the-counter medications, such as ibuprofen and aspirin, may also trigger acid reflux. A doctor may recommend certain medications, including calcium channel blockers and tricyclic antidepressants. It is important to consult a doctor before taking any medication, as even small changes can have a huge impact on your health.
