ESOPHAGEAL REFLUX IS THE MOST COMMON DISEASE encountered by primary healthcare providers. Also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), the condition is common worldwide. Today’s topic is what you should know about esophageal reflux; we’ll look at esophageal reflux basics.
Esophageal reflux is when the stomach contents reflux (go backward) into the esophagus or beyond (the backwash of stomach acid can go up to the mouth, voice box region, or into the lungs), resulting in bothersome symptoms and complications.
Many individuals have acid reflux on occasion. However, when acid reflux repeatedly occurs over time, esophageal reflux can result in gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD.
Lifestyle interventions and medicines can relieve GERD symptoms. Uncommonly, surgery is indicated to provide symptom palliation. Today we explore the evaluation and management of GERD. First, we’ll look at incidence. Second, we’ll turn to symptoms. Third. I’ll offer a toolbox for esophageal reflux risk reduction.
“One of the fastest ways to improve your health is to eat slowly.”
― Mokokoma Mokhonoana
How common is gastroesophageal reflux disease?
Gastroesophageal reflux disease is common. The American College of Gastroenterology reports that GERD affects about one in five individuals in the United States. This incidence translates to approximately 60 million adults who experience the condition at least once per month.
Roughly seven percent of the global population has GERD. The rate in Asia is lower, at about five percent. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gastroesophageal_reflux_disease
GERD is more common among overweight or obese, elderly, or pregnant. Smoking raises the risk, too, as do certain medications. These medicines include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Finally, certain medical conditions — hiatal hernia, gallstones, or sleep apnea are examples — raise the risk of GERD.
Recently, researchers reported that non-alcoholic fatty liver disease increases the risk of developing reflux esophagitis.
Not all who have occasional heartburn or acid reflux have GERD. However, if your symptoms are frequent, please consult a healthcare provider to receive an accurate diagnosis and appropriate management.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease basics — Symptoms
According to Johns Hopkins Medicine (USA), the primary symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease include the following:
- Heartburn. Patients often describe a fiery sensation in the chest and the regurgitation of bitter or sour liquid to the throat or mouth. This combination of symptoms is so characteristic of GERD that formal testing may be unnecessary.
- Chest pain, non-burning. This discomfort is typically in the middle of the chest and radiates to the back.
- Difficulty swallowing.
Endoscopic image of a peptic stricture, or narrowing of the esophagus near the junction with the stomach: This is a complication of chronic gastroesophageal reflux disease and can cause difficulty swallowing, for instance. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gastroesophageal_reflux_disease
Atypical reflux symptoms may include coughing, a sore throat, increased saliva production, or shortness of breath.
Esophageal reflux basics — My take
Heartburn is common, but you should not take it lightly. For instance, untreated, severe, and chronic heartburn is associated with a higher risk of esophagus cancer. Please consult with a healthcare provider if you have frequent heartburn.
Many with infrequent heartburn derive relief from antacids or medicines called H2 blockers or proton pump inhibitors. But remember, if you suffer from heartburn more than once weekly, you may have acid reflux disease, a potentially serious problem if left untreated.
GERD can play a role in chronic cough, asthma, warm nose, and throat problems. Fortunately, effective management allows many to become symptom-free.
Esophageal reflux basics — Risk reduction
I will end with an esophageal reflux risk-reduction toolbox, courtesy of the Mayo Clinic (USA):
- Maintain a healthy weight.
- Don’t smoke tobacco.
- Elevate the head of your bed.
- Sleep on your LEFT side.
- Don’t lie down after a meal. Meals should occur at least two to three hours before bedtime.
- Eat food slowly and chew thoroughly.
- Avoid foods and drinks that trigger reflux. DO NOT take peppermint or drink peppermint tea if you have gastroesophageal reflux disease because peppermint relaxes the sphincter between the esophagus and stomach, permitting stomach acid to flow backward into the esophagus. (The sphincter muscle separates the esophagus from the stomach.) Avoid tight-fitting clothing.
The information I provided in this blog is for educational purposes only and does not substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult a medical professional or healthcare provider for medical advice, diagnoses, or treatment. I am not liable for risks or issues associated with using or acting upon the information in this blog.
