Can You Cure Acid Reflux?

Acid reflux is a regurgitation of acidic content from the stomach into the esophagus. The reflux is prevented by the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) that remains intact and opens when the peristaltic wave shows the presence of swallowing food. When LES becomes an inefficient acid reflux will result.

So you can control your acid reflux? If it is due to inaccurate LES, then there is no cure. You will need maintenance treatment with acid suppressants such as omeprazole, or if it is very severe or you have intermittent problems then fundoplication will relieve your symptoms.

However, there are a number of factors that can affect the efficiency of LES and acid reflux. Consider eliminating these factors that may affect GERD before consulting your doctor or taking a counter acid supplement. Sometimes all you need is a lifestyle change.

Obesity can cause or contribute to acid reflux. This is mainly in the distribution of heavy apple varieties. The extra weight increases the bulk of the upper abdomen and makes it difficult for the esophagus to release food effectively into the stomach. In addition, obese individuals are also exposed to hiatus hernia. The host hysteria can weaken LES. Losing weight is an important aspect in the treatment of acid reflux.

Wearing tight fitting clothing can cause acid reflux especially if the two sizes are too small. The increased pressure in the stomach can force the acid back into the throat. Wear loose clothes and your reflux symptoms will disappear.

Large amounts of food in the stomach will exert pressure on LES and may trigger acid reflux. It has happened to all of us at one time or another. Large quantities also reduce gastric emptying time which allows more opportunities for reflux. Eating more portions will often solve this problem.

Certain foods can affect GERD. Cow milk protein intolerance can cause esophagitis. It's called Allergic Eosinophilic Esophagitis. This is controlled by removing the milk protein from the diet. Other foods that can affect LES include fat, coffee, tea, alcohol, and some spices.

Some drugs can affect LES and cause acid reflux. These drugs include broncho-dilators such as theophylline, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), tri-cyclic antidepressants amitriptylline and drugs for Parkinson's disease.

Female hormones can affect acid reflux. In the Scandinavian study, women with hormones increased their risk of GERD. These drugs include contraceptive pills and hormone replacement therapy (HRT). Sedatives and sedatives can slow down the peristaltic waves in the esophagus, affecting the cleaning of food from the esophagus.

If you use medicine and you have GERD, choose a liquid medicine. Certain drugs such as tetracycline destroy the esophageal lining. Tablets and capsules (gelcaps) can be inserted into the esophagus. Always take a glass of water after the medication to wash it into the stomach. Avoid taking medications while lying down. GERD patients should always take a sitting or standing medication and avoid lying down immediately.

Smoking relieves LES and nicotine destroys the esophageal lining. Stop smoking and your GERD may improve.

Certain exercises can increase the risk of GERD. This is a case of competitive weight lifting and cycling. Joggers can develop symptoms of acid reflux.

If you have symptoms of acid reflux, look at all the potential risk factors and eliminate them. If you do, your symptoms disappear, you actually cure your acid reflux. However, if the symptoms persist, the next step is to visit your doctor.

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