Understanding GERD (Acid Reflux): Symptoms, Causes & Treatment

Introduction

Do you often find yourself suffering from a persistent burning discomfort in your chest? This may be due to acid reflux, which occurs when acid from your stomach rises into your oesophagus (food pipe). Recurrent acid reflux can cause oesophagal tissue damage over time, leading to Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD). This isn't just about fleeting indigestion; it's a deeper issue demanding attention. Hence, in this blog, we will discuss the causes of GERD and decipher its origins, symptoms, strategies, and treatments to regain control over your digestive well-being.

What is Acid Reflux?

Almost everyone has had an episode of acid reflux at some point in their lives.

Acid reflux can occur when stomach acid flows back into your oesophagus, causing a burning sensation in your chest and throat. This is prevented by a muscle known as the Lower Oesophagal Sphincter (LES), which separates your stomach from the oesophagus. After a heavy and rich meal, the LES muscle, which is normally contracted at rest, starts to loosen and relax. This lapse allows stomach acid to splash into the sensitive lining of your oesophagus, triggering discomfort and that familiar heartburn sensation. It may feel like a sour or bitter taste creeping up from your stomach into your throat, leaving you with an unpleasant reminder of what you have eaten. Factors like overeating, lying down immediately after meals, or consuming acidic and fatty foods can increase the chances of acid reflux.

What is GERD?

GERD, or Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease, is a chronic and more severe form of acid reflux. It happens when stomach acid regularly flows back into your oesophagus, causing persistent discomfort, irritation, and inflammation, a relentless wave of heartburn, regurgitation, and an acidic taste that refuses to fade. This is when your lower oesophagal sphincter, the gatekeeper between your stomach and oesophagus, struggles to keep acid at bay.

How Common are Acid Reflux and GERD?

Acid reflux is a common problem in almost every household. GERD is also a prevalent condition, with about 15% of people in India having this disorder. 

What are the Symptoms of Acid Reflux and GERD?

Symptoms of acid reflux include:

• A burning sensation in your chest that typically occurs after meals.
• You may experience a sour or bitter taste as stomach contents flow back into the throat. This regurgitated material can sometimes reach the mouth, creating an unpleasant taste and contributing to bad breath.
• When you have acid reflux acid, you may often encounter frequent burping.
• Excessive belching, accompanied by an acidic taste, is a common outcome of digestive disruption.
• The irritation caused by stomach acid can extend beyond your oesophagus, resulting in dysphagia or difficulty swallowing. It can make eating and drinking uncomfortable for you.

Common symptoms of GERD include :

• Chronic heartburn is a crucial marker of GERD, differentiating it from occasional acid reflux episodes.
• You may also experience chest pain or discomfort in the chest that can be mistaken for heart-related issues. This pain can radiate to your neck and back.
• A persistent, dry cough is another distinctive symptom of GERD, unrelated to respiratory infections. The irritation caused by your stomach acid triggers this chronic cough.
• Moreover, GERD can lead to laryngitis, causing hoarseness and irritation in your voice box. The constant exposure of the delicate tissues in the throat to stomach acid contributes to these vocal changes.
• GERD can cause sleep disturbances. You may wake up due to the regurgitation of stomach contents, leading to disrupted sleep patterns.

Do Babies get GERD?

Yes, babies can experience GERD. Your little one, after feeding, may regurgitate small amounts of milk, commonly known as spitting up. However, if this occurs frequently and is accompanied by signs of discomfort, such as fussiness, arching of the back, or poor weight gain, it could indicate GERD. If your baby is experiencing heartburn, you can witness irritability during or after feeds due to the underdeveloped lower oesophagal sphincter in infants. So, if you notice persistent symptoms, seek guidance from a paediatrician. With proper care, your baby can find relief from GERD symptoms.

What Causes Acid Reflux?

Acid reflux is a multifaceted condition with various contributing factors. Some common causes of acid reflux include:

• Lower Oesophageal Sphincter (LES) Dysfunction: Your Lower Oesophagal Sphincter (LES) acts as a muscular ring that acts as a valve between the oesophagus and the stomach. Its primary function is to prevent stomach contents, including acid, from regurgitating into the oesophagus. When the LES weakens or relaxes inappropriately, it allows acid to flow back, leading to acid reflux. Factors like obesity, pregnancy, and certain medications can influence this malfunctioning of the LES.
• Hiatal Hernia: A hiatus is a small opening in the diaphragm through which your oesophagus passes before connecting to the stomach. A hiatal hernia occurs when a portion of the stomach protrudes through this opening into the chest cavity. This structural change can contribute to acid reflux by compromising the normal functioning of the LES.
• Dietary Choices: Late-night indulgence in a spicy meal or acidic drink contributes to an uncomfortable about of acid reflux. Being mindful of your nutritional choices and avoiding trigger foods can be crucial in managing acid reflux.
• Overeating and Obesity: Your stomach acts as a reservoir for food. Overeating fills this reservoir excessively, putting pressure on the LES and increasing the likelihood of stomach contents, including acid, flowing back into your oesophagus. This is particularly relevant in the context of obesity, where excess abdominal fat can also exert pressure on the stomach and LES. Therefore, obesity is one of the primary causes of GERD.
• Pregnancy: For expectant mothers, the growing uterus can exert pressure on the stomach, leading to changes in LES function. Hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy, specifically the increase in progesterone, can contribute to the relaxation of the LES, facilitating acid reflux.
• Smoking and Alcohol Consumption: Smoking acts as a double-edged sword in the context of acid reflux. Not only does it relax the LES, but it also stimulates your acid production. Similarly, excessive alcohol consumption can contribute to acid reflux by relaxing the LES and irritating the oesophagal lining in your body. Recognising and addressing these lifestyle factors can significantly impact the frequency and severity of acid reflux symptoms.
• Delayed stomach emptying: Your digestion is a carefully orchestrated process. When the stomach takes longer than usual to empty its contents, the risk of acid reflux increases. This delayed stomach emptying, known as Gastroparesis, can result from conditions such as diabetes or certain medications.
• Posture and lying down after meals: If you recline on the couch immediately after a meal, it can make it easier for stomach contents to flow back into the oesophagus because of the horizontal position of your body. Maintaining an upright posture after eating can help gravity assist in keeping stomach acid where it belongs.
• Medications: Some medications, such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and some antidepressants, can irritate the lining of the oesophagus and weaken the LES. It is also one of the major causes of GERD.
• By Birth: Congenital abnormalities such as oesophagal atresia (abnormal development of oesophagus) might have an impact on LES.

Can Foods Cause Acid Reflux?

Yes, certain food items can trigger acid reflux in your body. Acidic or spicy options such as citrus fruits, tomatoes, chocolate, and peppermint are some of the items on the list of acid reflux foods to avoid. Steer clear of caffeine and alcohol, which are known irritants to the oesophagal lining; these items can relax the LES or prompt excess acid production, intensifying reflux. You may experience discomfort from late-night indulgence in fatty or fried foods.

What are the Possible Complications of Chronic Acid Reflux (GERD)?

Chronic acid reflux, or GERD, can lead to a spectrum of complications that gradually impact your health:

• Oesophagitis: Constant irritation and inflammation can be caused by stomach acid bathing your oesophagal lining. This condition, known as oesophagitis, can lead to discomfort, pain, and difficulty swallowing. Left untreated, it may progress to more severe complications.
• Barrett's Oesophagus: In some cases, chronic GERD can trigger changes in the cells lining your oesophagus. These cells can morph into a type more resembling those in the intestines—a condition known as Barrett's oesophagus. This transformation increases the risk of oesophagal cancer over time.
• Strictures: Your oesophagus can start narrowing due to the formation of scar tissue. This condition, known as strictures, can result from chronic inflammation and repeated injury to the oesophagal lining. It leads to difficulty swallowing.
• Respiratory Issues: Prolonged exposure to gastric contents due to GERD can cause respiratory complications such as asthma, chronic cough, or recurrent pneumonia, putting strain on your respiratory system.
• Dental Problems: Your stomach acid can also have an erosive effect on your teeth. Chronic acid reflux can contribute to dental issues, including enamel erosion, cavities, and gum disease.
• Erosive Oesophagitis: Oesophagitis can worsen over time, leading to erosions or ulcers in your oesophagal lining. This scenario, known as erosive oesophagitis, intensifies the discomfort associated with GERD.
• Oesophageal Cancer: The long-term consequence of untreated GERD includes an increased risk of oesophageal cancer. Persistent irritation and changes in cell structure, as seen in Barrett's oesophagus, elevate the likelihood of developing cancer over time.
• Disrupted Sleep: GERD can cause sleep disruptions, leading to insomnia or fragmented sleep patterns. The resulting fatigue affects your overall quality of life, contributing to daytime sleepiness and decreased productivity.

How is GERD Diagnosed?

A gastroenterologist can perform several diagnostic tests to evaluate your oesophagus to diagnose GERD. These include:

• Oesophagram: This X-ray exam takes moving X-rays (fluoroscopy) of your oesophagus while you swallow. You will need to eat a chalky liquid called barium for this test.
• Upper Endoscopy: This involves looking inside your oesophagus with a camera. The camera is on the end of a thin tube that passes through your mouth while you sleep under light sedation.
• Oesophageal pH test: This test measures the acid content inside your oesophagus through a tiny wireless receiver. Your doctor places the receiver in your oesophagus during an endoscopy.
• Oesophageal manometry: This test measures the muscle activity in your oesophagus using pressure sensors embedded in a nasogastric tube and can confirm if your LES or other muscles are not working right.

What is the Medical Treatment for GERD?

Medical treatment of GERD involves several options to alleviate symptoms and promote healing. Consider the following medical interventions:

• Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs): Medicines for acid reflux like PPIs, such as omeprazole or esomeprazole, reduce your stomach acid production. They provide effective relief from GERD symptoms and contribute to the healing of the oesophagus by creating an environment with lower acidity.
• H2 Blockers: H2 blockers, including ranitidine or famotidine, work by blocking histamine, a chemical that stimulates acid production in your stomach. By reducing acid secretion, H2 blockers help manage GERD symptoms and contribute to oesophagal healing.
• Antacids: Over-the-counter antacids, like calcium carbonate or aluminium hydroxide, offer immediate relief by neutralising your stomach acid. While they provide temporary alleviation of symptoms, antacids are generally used as adjuncts to other medications for more comprehensive management.
• Prokinetics: Prokinetic medications, such as metoclopramide, enhance gastrointestinal motility. They work to strengthen the LES and promote efficient stomach emptying, reducing the likelihood of acid reflux.
• Baclofen: It is a medication typically used to treat muscle spasms and has shown promise in reducing the frequency of transient relaxations of the lower oesophagal sphincter (TLESRs), which are often associated with GERD. By promoting better LES function, baclofen can help in the treatment of acid reflux.
• Alginate-based medications: Alginate forms a protective barrier in your stomach, reducing the likelihood of stomach contents refluxing into the oesophagus.
• Surgery (Fundoplication): For cases resistant to medications, fundoplication is a surgical option. This procedure involves wrapping the top of your stomach around the lower oesophagus to reinforce the LES. Fundoplication provides a long-term solution for preventing acid reflux.
• Endoscopic Treatments: Endoscopic procedures offer minimally invasive alternatives. The Stretta procedure utilises radiofrequency energy to strengthen your LES, while the LINX device is a magnetic ring implanted around the oesophagus to prevent reflux. These options provide effective relief with reduced invasiveness compared to traditional surgery.

How Do You Get Rid of Acid Reflux? Is there a cure?

While there isn't a cure for acid reflux, effective management strategies can help you lead a symptom-free life. Therefore

• Adopt simple lifestyle changes like avoiding acidic, spicy, and fatty foods.
• Practice a more balanced and mindful approach to eating, with smaller and more frequent meals, which can contribute to digestive comfort.
• Keeping the head elevated during sleep, wearing loose clothes, and maintaining a healthy weight also reduce symptoms. Lying on your left side while sleeping can also minimise reflux.
• Managing stress through relaxation techniques can also contribute to symptom relief. 
• Over-the-counter antacids or other medications can help in neutralising and reducing the amount of acid in your stomach. However, in severe cases or if it affects daily life, doctors might recommend prescription medications or, in rare instances, surgery for GERD treatment.

These lifestyle adjustments reduce the frequency and severity of acid reflux episodes. So, consultation with a doctor is essential to tailor a treatment plan addressing your specific needs and ensuring long-term relief from acid reflux symptoms.

What Can I Expect if I Have Acid Reflux?

If you have acid reflux, you might feel a burning sensation in your chest or throat, often after eating. You could experience heartburn, which feels like a burning discomfort in the chest, sometimes spreading to the throat. You might also have a sour or acidic taste in your mouth, especially after eating or lying down. This could lead to regurgitation, where stomach contents come up into the throat or mouth.

Some people with acid reflux also feel like food gets stuck in their chest or throat. You might also experience other symptoms like coughing, hoarseness, trouble swallowing, or a feeling of a lump in your throat. These symptoms might vary in severity from person to person. Hence, it is essential to talk to a doctor if you have these symptoms often or if they interfere with your daily life to help determine the best ways to manage and reduce these symptoms.

What Helps Acid Reflux at Home?

You can try several things at home to help ease acid reflux, like:

• Eating smaller meals more frequently can help, as can avoiding foods that trigger your reflux, like spicy or acidic foods.
• Incorporate alkaline-rich foods like bananas and melons into your diet to counteract acidity. Sip on ginger or chamomile tea, known for its soothing properties.
• Elevating the head of your bed prevents stomach acid from flowing into your oesophagus, especially during sleep. Some people find relief by using extra pillows to elevate their heads while sleeping.
• Changing how you eat can make a difference, too. Chewing food slowly and thoroughly, avoiding big bites, and taking time during meals can help reduce acid reflux.
• Wearing loose clothes, especially around your waist, can also be helpful.
• Antacids can help neutralise your stomach acid. Still, it's best to check with a doctor before taking any medication, especially if you're pregnant or have other health conditions.
• Avoid lying down immediately after meals, allowing gravity to assist in keeping stomach acid where it belongs.

What to Do During an Acid Reflux Attack?

Try sitting upright or standing to ease the discomfort during an acid reflux attack.

• Avoid lying down or bending over.
• Sipping water slowly may help, and chewing gum might also provide relief.
• Avoid eating or drinking anything that triggers your reflux. If the symptoms persist or worsen, seek medical advice for proper guidance and treatment.

When Should I See My Doctor About Acid Reflux?

Consult your doctor if acid reflux symptoms persist or worsen despite lifestyle changes. Seek prompt medical attention if you experience difficulty swallowing, unintended weight loss, chest pain, or if reflux occurs frequently, as it may need a more thorough evaluation.

Conclusion

Acid reflux has become a common occurrence in today's fast lifestyle. Recurrent acid reflux episodes can lead to GERD, causing further damage to your oesophagus. Managing acid reflux and GERD treatment requires a personalised approach. Proactive management of acid reflux involves lifestyle adjustments, dietary changes, and, when necessary, medical interventions. Severe GERD treatment may also need procedures like Endoscopic surgery. So, remember to always look out for frequent symptoms of GERD and consult a doctor when necessary. If you're looking for more details on acid reflux, GERD management or other disorders, check out Metropolis Labs, leading specialists in pathology with comprehensive diagnostic blood test services. Get in touch today!

Introduction

Do you often find yourself suffering from a persistent burning discomfort in your chest? This may be due to acid reflux, which occurs when acid from your stomach rises into your oesophagus (food pipe). Recurrent acid reflux can cause oesophagal tissue damage over time, leading to Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD). This isn't just about fleeting indigestion; it's a deeper issue demanding attention. Hence, in this blog, we will discuss the causes of GERD and decipher its origins, symptoms, strategies, and treatments to regain control over your digestive well-being.

What is Acid Reflux?

Almost everyone has had an episode of acid reflux at some point in their lives.

Acid reflux can occur when stomach acid flows back into your oesophagus, causing a burning sensation in your chest and throat. This is prevented by a muscle known as the Lower Oesophagal Sphincter (LES), which separates your stomach from the oesophagus. After a heavy and rich meal, the LES muscle, which is normally contracted at rest, starts to loosen and relax. This lapse allows stomach acid to splash into the sensitive lining of your oesophagus, triggering discomfort and that familiar heartburn sensation. It may feel like a sour or bitter taste creeping up from your stomach into your throat, leaving you with an unpleasant reminder of what you have eaten. Factors like overeating, lying down immediately after meals, or consuming acidic and fatty foods can increase the chances of acid reflux.

What is GERD?

GERD, or Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease, is a chronic and more severe form of acid reflux. It happens when stomach acid regularly flows back into your oesophagus, causing persistent discomfort, irritation, and inflammation, a relentless wave of heartburn, regurgitation, and an acidic taste that refuses to fade. This is when your lower oesophagal sphincter, the gatekeeper between your stomach and oesophagus, struggles to keep acid at bay.

How Common are Acid Reflux and GERD?

Acid reflux is a common problem in almost every household. GERD is also a prevalent condition, with about 15% of people in India having this disorder. 

What are the Symptoms of Acid Reflux and GERD?

Symptoms of acid reflux include:

• A burning sensation in your chest that typically occurs after meals.
• You may experience a sour or bitter taste as stomach contents flow back into the throat. This regurgitated material can sometimes reach the mouth, creating an unpleasant taste and contributing to bad breath.
• When you have acid reflux acid, you may often encounter frequent burping.
• Excessive belching, accompanied by an acidic taste, is a common outcome of digestive disruption.
• The irritation caused by stomach acid can extend beyond your oesophagus, resulting in dysphagia or difficulty swallowing. It can make eating and drinking uncomfortable for you.

Common symptoms of GERD include :

• Chronic heartburn is a crucial marker of GERD, differentiating it from occasional acid reflux episodes.
• You may also experience chest pain or discomfort in the chest that can be mistaken for heart-related issues. This pain can radiate to your neck and back.
• A persistent, dry cough is another distinctive symptom of GERD, unrelated to respiratory infections. The irritation caused by your stomach acid triggers this chronic cough.
• Moreover, GERD can lead to laryngitis, causing hoarseness and irritation in your voice box. The constant exposure of the delicate tissues in the throat to stomach acid contributes to these vocal changes.
• GERD can cause sleep disturbances. You may wake up due to the regurgitation of stomach contents, leading to disrupted sleep patterns.

Do Babies get GERD?

Yes, babies can experience GERD. Your little one, after feeding, may regurgitate small amounts of milk, commonly known as spitting up. However, if this occurs frequently and is accompanied by signs of discomfort, such as fussiness, arching of the back, or poor weight gain, it could indicate GERD. If your baby is experiencing heartburn, you can witness irritability during or after feeds due to the underdeveloped lower oesophagal sphincter in infants. So, if you notice persistent symptoms, seek guidance from a paediatrician. With proper care, your baby can find relief from GERD symptoms.

What Causes Acid Reflux?

Acid reflux is a multifaceted condition with various contributing factors. Some common causes of acid reflux include:

• Lower Oesophageal Sphincter (LES) Dysfunction: Your Lower Oesophagal Sphincter (LES) acts as a muscular ring that acts as a valve between the oesophagus and the stomach. Its primary function is to prevent stomach contents, including acid, from regurgitating into the oesophagus. When the LES weakens or relaxes inappropriately, it allows acid to flow back, leading to acid reflux. Factors like obesity, pregnancy, and certain medications can influence this malfunctioning of the LES.
• Hiatal Hernia: A hiatus is a small opening in the diaphragm through which your oesophagus passes before connecting to the stomach. A hiatal hernia occurs when a portion of the stomach protrudes through this opening into the chest cavity. This structural change can contribute to acid reflux by compromising the normal functioning of the LES.
• Dietary Choices: Late-night indulgence in a spicy meal or acidic drink contributes to an uncomfortable about of acid reflux. Being mindful of your nutritional choices and avoiding trigger foods can be crucial in managing acid reflux.
• Overeating and Obesity: Your stomach acts as a reservoir for food. Overeating fills this reservoir excessively, putting pressure on the LES and increasing the likelihood of stomach contents, including acid, flowing back into your oesophagus. This is particularly relevant in the context of obesity, where excess abdominal fat can also exert pressure on the stomach and LES. Therefore, obesity is one of the primary causes of GERD.
• Pregnancy: For expectant mothers, the growing uterus can exert pressure on the stomach, leading to changes in LES function. Hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy, specifically the increase in progesterone, can contribute to the relaxation of the LES, facilitating acid reflux.
• Smoking and Alcohol Consumption: Smoking acts as a double-edged sword in the context of acid reflux. Not only does it relax the LES, but it also stimulates your acid production. Similarly, excessive alcohol consumption can contribute to acid reflux by relaxing the LES and irritating the oesophagal lining in your body. Recognising and addressing these lifestyle factors can significantly impact the frequency and severity of acid reflux symptoms.
• Delayed stomach emptying: Your digestion is a carefully orchestrated process. When the stomach takes longer than usual to empty its contents, the risk of acid reflux increases. This delayed stomach emptying, known as Gastroparesis, can result from conditions such as diabetes or certain medications.
• Posture and lying down after meals: If you recline on the couch immediately after a meal, it can make it easier for stomach contents to flow back into the oesophagus because of the horizontal position of your body. Maintaining an upright posture after eating can help gravity assist in keeping stomach acid where it belongs.
• Medications: Some medications, such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and some antidepressants, can irritate the lining of the oesophagus and weaken the LES. It is also one of the major causes of GERD.
• By Birth: Congenital abnormalities such as oesophagal atresia (abnormal development of oesophagus) might have an impact on LES.

Can Foods Cause Acid Reflux?

Yes, certain food items can trigger acid reflux in your body. Acidic or spicy options such as citrus fruits, tomatoes, chocolate, and peppermint are some of the items on the list of acid reflux foods to avoid. Steer clear of caffeine and alcohol, which are known irritants to the oesophagal lining; these items can relax the LES or prompt excess acid production, intensifying reflux. You may experience discomfort from late-night indulgence in fatty or fried foods.

What are the Possible Complications of Chronic Acid Reflux (GERD)?

Chronic acid reflux, or GERD, can lead to a spectrum of complications that gradually impact your health:

• Oesophagitis: Constant irritation and inflammation can be caused by stomach acid bathing your oesophagal lining. This condition, known as oesophagitis, can lead to discomfort, pain, and difficulty swallowing. Left untreated, it may progress to more severe complications.
• Barrett's Oesophagus: In some cases, chronic GERD can trigger changes in the cells lining your oesophagus. These cells can morph into a type more resembling those in the intestines—a condition known as Barrett's oesophagus. This transformation increases the risk of oesophagal cancer over time.
• Strictures: Your oesophagus can start narrowing due to the formation of scar tissue. This condition, known as strictures, can result from chronic inflammation and repeated injury to the oesophagal lining. It leads to difficulty swallowing.
• Respiratory Issues: Prolonged exposure to gastric contents due to GERD can cause respiratory complications such as asthma, chronic cough, or recurrent pneumonia, putting strain on your respiratory system.
• Dental Problems: Your stomach acid can also have an erosive effect on your teeth. Chronic acid reflux can contribute to dental issues, including enamel erosion, cavities, and gum disease.
• Erosive Oesophagitis: Oesophagitis can worsen over time, leading to erosions or ulcers in your oesophagal lining. This scenario, known as erosive oesophagitis, intensifies the discomfort associated with GERD.
• Oesophageal Cancer: The long-term consequence of untreated GERD includes an increased risk of oesophageal cancer. Persistent irritation and changes in cell structure, as seen in Barrett's oesophagus, elevate the likelihood of developing cancer over time.
• Disrupted Sleep: GERD can cause sleep disruptions, leading to insomnia or fragmented sleep patterns. The resulting fatigue affects your overall quality of life, contributing to daytime sleepiness and decreased productivity.

How is GERD Diagnosed?

A gastroenterologist can perform several diagnostic tests to evaluate your oesophagus to diagnose GERD. These include:

• Oesophagram: This X-ray exam takes moving X-rays (fluoroscopy) of your oesophagus while you swallow. You will need to eat a chalky liquid called barium for this test.
• Upper Endoscopy: This involves looking inside your oesophagus with a camera. The camera is on the end of a thin tube that passes through your mouth while you sleep under light sedation.
• Oesophageal pH test: This test measures the acid content inside your oesophagus through a tiny wireless receiver. Your doctor places the receiver in your oesophagus during an endoscopy.
• Oesophageal manometry: This test measures the muscle activity in your oesophagus using pressure sensors embedded in a nasogastric tube and can confirm if your LES or other muscles are not working right.

What is the Medical Treatment for GERD?

Medical treatment of GERD involves several options to alleviate symptoms and promote healing. Consider the following medical interventions:

• Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs): Medicines for acid reflux like PPIs, such as omeprazole or esomeprazole, reduce your stomach acid production. They provide effective relief from GERD symptoms and contribute to the healing of the oesophagus by creating an environment with lower acidity.
• H2 Blockers: H2 blockers, including ranitidine or famotidine, work by blocking histamine, a chemical that stimulates acid production in your stomach. By reducing acid secretion, H2 blockers help manage GERD symptoms and contribute to oesophagal healing.
• Antacids: Over-the-counter antacids, like calcium carbonate or aluminium hydroxide, offer immediate relief by neutralising your stomach acid. While they provide temporary alleviation of symptoms, antacids are generally used as adjuncts to other medications for more comprehensive management.
• Prokinetics: Prokinetic medications, such as metoclopramide, enhance gastrointestinal motility. They work to strengthen the LES and promote efficient stomach emptying, reducing the likelihood of acid reflux.
• Baclofen: It is a medication typically used to treat muscle spasms and has shown promise in reducing the frequency of transient relaxations of the lower oesophagal sphincter (TLESRs), which are often associated with GERD. By promoting better LES function, baclofen can help in the treatment of acid reflux.
• Alginate-based medications: Alginate forms a protective barrier in your stomach, reducing the likelihood of stomach contents refluxing into the oesophagus.
• Surgery (Fundoplication): For cases resistant to medications, fundoplication is a surgical option. This procedure involves wrapping the top of your stomach around the lower oesophagus to reinforce the LES. Fundoplication provides a long-term solution for preventing acid reflux.
• Endoscopic Treatments: Endoscopic procedures offer minimally invasive alternatives. The Stretta procedure utilises radiofrequency energy to strengthen your LES, while the LINX device is a magnetic ring implanted around the oesophagus to prevent reflux. These options provide effective relief with reduced invasiveness compared to traditional surgery.

How Do You Get Rid of Acid Reflux? Is there a cure?

While there isn't a cure for acid reflux, effective management strategies can help you lead a symptom-free life. Therefore

• Adopt simple lifestyle changes like avoiding acidic, spicy, and fatty foods.
• Practice a more balanced and mindful approach to eating, with smaller and more frequent meals, which can contribute to digestive comfort.
• Keeping the head elevated during sleep, wearing loose clothes, and maintaining a healthy weight also reduce symptoms. Lying on your left side while sleeping can also minimise reflux.
• Managing stress through relaxation techniques can also contribute to symptom relief. 
• Over-the-counter antacids or other medications can help in neutralising and reducing the amount of acid in your stomach. However, in severe cases or if it affects daily life, doctors might recommend prescription medications or, in rare instances, surgery for GERD treatment.

These lifestyle adjustments reduce the frequency and severity of acid reflux episodes. So, consultation with a doctor is essential to tailor a treatment plan addressing your specific needs and ensuring long-term relief from acid reflux symptoms.

What Can I Expect if I Have Acid Reflux?

If you have acid reflux, you might feel a burning sensation in your chest or throat, often after eating. You could experience heartburn, which feels like a burning discomfort in the chest, sometimes spreading to the throat. You might also have a sour or acidic taste in your mouth, especially after eating or lying down. This could lead to regurgitation, where stomach contents come up into the throat or mouth.

Some people with acid reflux also feel like food gets stuck in their chest or throat. You might also experience other symptoms like coughing, hoarseness, trouble swallowing, or a feeling of a lump in your throat. These symptoms might vary in severity from person to person. Hence, it is essential to talk to a doctor if you have these symptoms often or if they interfere with your daily life to help determine the best ways to manage and reduce these symptoms.

What Helps Acid Reflux at Home?

You can try several things at home to help ease acid reflux, like:

• Eating smaller meals more frequently can help, as can avoiding foods that trigger your reflux, like spicy or acidic foods.
• Incorporate alkaline-rich foods like bananas and melons into your diet to counteract acidity. Sip on ginger or chamomile tea, known for its soothing properties.
• Elevating the head of your bed prevents stomach acid from flowing into your oesophagus, especially during sleep. Some people find relief by using extra pillows to elevate their heads while sleeping.
• Changing how you eat can make a difference, too. Chewing food slowly and thoroughly, avoiding big bites, and taking time during meals can help reduce acid reflux.
• Wearing loose clothes, especially around your waist, can also be helpful.
• Antacids can help neutralise your stomach acid. Still, it's best to check with a doctor before taking any medication, especially if you're pregnant or have other health conditions.
• Avoid lying down immediately after meals, allowing gravity to assist in keeping stomach acid where it belongs.

What to Do During an Acid Reflux Attack?

Try sitting upright or standing to ease the discomfort during an acid reflux attack.

• Avoid lying down or bending over.
• Sipping water slowly may help, and chewing gum might also provide relief.
• Avoid eating or drinking anything that triggers your reflux. If the symptoms persist or worsen, seek medical advice for proper guidance and treatment.

When Should I See My Doctor About Acid Reflux?

Consult your doctor if acid reflux symptoms persist or worsen despite lifestyle changes. Seek prompt medical attention if you experience difficulty swallowing, unintended weight loss, chest pain, or if reflux occurs frequently, as it may need a more thorough evaluation.

Conclusion

Acid reflux has become a common occurrence in today's fast lifestyle. Recurrent acid reflux episodes can lead to GERD, causing further damage to your oesophagus. Managing acid reflux and GERD treatment requires a personalised approach. Proactive management of acid reflux involves lifestyle adjustments, dietary changes, and, when necessary, medical interventions. Severe GERD treatment may also need procedures like Endoscopic surgery. So, remember to always look out for frequent symptoms of GERD and consult a doctor when necessary. If you're looking for more details on acid reflux, GERD management or other disorders, check out Metropolis Labs, leading specialists in pathology with comprehensive diagnostic blood test services. Get in touch today!