Can you cure Acid Reflux?

Acid reflux or GERD is a major health issue. It can affect both women and mens health. It is regurgitation 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 faulty acid reflux will result. This is called gastro-esophageal reflux disease or GERD.

So can you cure your acid reflux? If it is due to true LES incompetence, then there is no cure. You will need maintenance treatment with acid suppressants like 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 acid reflux before seeing your doctor or taking over the counter acid suppressants. A lifestyle change is sometimes all you need.

A contributory cause of acid reflux is obesity. It is more likely in the apple type distribution of weight. The increased bulk in the abdomen 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. An important aspect of acid reflux treatment is losing weight.

Wearing tight fitting clothes can cause acid reflux especially if it is two sizes too small. The increased pressure on the stomach may trigger back flow into the gullet. Wear loose clothes and your reflux symptoms may go away.

A large meal entering the stomach will increase the pressure on the LES and can trigger acid reflux. It has happened to us all at some time or other. Gastric clearance time is also increased by large volume allowing more opportunity for reflux. Eating smaller portions more frequently will counter this problem.

Certain foods can affect GERD. Cow’s milk protein intolerance can cause esophagitis. It is called Allergic Eosinophilic Esophagitis. Removing cow’s milk protein from your diet will control this. Other foods that can affect the LES include fats, coffee, tea, alcohol, and some spices.

Some drugs can affect the LES and cause 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.

Acid reflux is affected by female hormones. In a Scandinavian Study, women on hormones had showed a greater risk. These drugs include the hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and the contraceptive pill. 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, opt for liquid medication. Certain drugs ie tetracycline are corrosive to the esophageal lining. Tablets and capsules (gelcaps) can lodge in the esophagus. Always drink a glass of water to wash the medication down. Avoid taking medication while lying down. It is best for GERD patients to take drugs standing or sitting up and avoid lying down immediately after.

Smoking relaxes the LES and nicotine is corrosive to esophageal lining. Stop smoking and your acid reflux might improve.

Certain exercises have been shown to increase the risk of GERD. This is the case in competitive weightlifting and cycling. Acid reflux symptoms can develop in joggers.

If you have acid reflux symptoms, look at all the potential risk factors and eliminate them. If by doing so, your symptoms disappear, you have actually cured your acid reflux. However, if the symptoms persist, the next step is a visit to your doctor.