Can you cure Acid Reflux?
Acid reflux or GERD is a major health issue. It can affect both women and mens health. In this condition, there is reflux of stomach content high in acid into the esophagus. The lower esophageal sphincter (LES), which remains tightly closed, prevents reflux and opens when peristaltic waves herald the imminent arrival of swallowed food. When the LES becomes incompetent acid reflux will result. This is called GERD or gastro-esophageal reflux disease.
So can you cure your acid reflux? If it is due to true LES incompetence, then there is no cure. In LES incompetence, you need maintenance acid suppressant treatment such as 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 GERD before seeing your doctor or taking over the counter acid suppressants. A lifestyle change is sometimes all you need.
A contributory cause of GERD is obesity. This is especially so 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. A hiatus hernia can weaken the LES. Losing weight is an important aspect of acid reflux treatment.
Acid reflux can be caused by wearing tight fitting clothes especially if it is two sizes too small. The pressure exerted on the stomach may trigger back flow into the gullet. Your symptoms will improve if you wear loose clothes.
A large meal entering the stomach will increase the pressure on the LES and can cause acid reflux. We all experience this at some time or other. Gastric clearance time is also increased by large volume increasing the risk for reflux. Eating smaller portions more frequently will counter this problem.
Certain foods can affect acid reflux. Allergic Eosinophilic Esophagitis is an inflammation caused by cow’s milk intolerance. This is controlled by removing cow’s milk protein from the diet. Other foods that can affect the LES include fats, coffee, tea, alcohol, and some spices.
The lower esophageal sphincter can be affected by some drugs and result in acid reflux. Broncho-dilators such as theophylline, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID), tri-cyclic antidepressants ie amitryptilline and drugs for Parkinson’s disease are in this list.
GERD symptoms are affected by female hormones. In a Scandinavian Study, women on hormones had showed a greater risk. These drugs include the contraceptive pill and hormone replacement therapy (HRT). 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 and you are on medication, opt for liquid medication. Tetracycline and certain other drugs are corrosive to the esophageal lining. Tablets and capsules (gelcaps) can lodge in the esophagus. Make it a habit to drink a glass of water to wash the medication down. Try not to take medication while lying down. It is best for GERD patients to take medication sitting up or standing and avoid lying down immediately after.
Nicotine in corrosive to the esophageal lining and also relaxes the LES. GERD symptoms improve when you give up smoking.
GERD risk is increased by certain exercises. This is the case in competitive weightlifting and cycling. Joggers can develop GERD 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.
