Acid reflux is a disease that afflicts countless individuals every day. They live with the discomfort and constant round of medications. That burning, heavy feeling in the throat and chest can make anybody feel less than their best. Many folks are uncertain as to why acid reflux is afflicting them or even if they have acid reflux. Many patients suffer for years with acid reflux, thinking they only have indigestion or heart burn. Here are some answers to the more common questions dealing with acid reflux.
What is Acid Reflux
The first thing you should know is that everyone has acid reflux. It is a natural process of the body. The stomach is filled with liquid that aids in digestion. During the process of digestion small amounts of this liquid is pushed back up into the esophagus. The liquid contains acid, Pepsin and a small amount of bile.
In many people the reflux does not harm them. But if there is any damage to the esophageal tissue the acid can begin eroding the lining further thus leading to discomfort and pain. Many things affect how much acid is produced by the stomach. Other factors such as smoking, weight and saliva production can have a tremendous affect on the reflux of liquids.
Can anyone, regardless of age, have acid reflux
Acid reflux is not picky about the age, ethnicity or religious viewpoint. It can strike anyone at any age. There are factors that can increase your likelihood of developing acid reflux. It is important that if you are suffering from repeat attacks of heartburn or indigestion to seek out the advice of your physician.
How is it treated in adults
The first step in treatment is sleeping position. Gravity can be your friend or your foe. By sleeping at an incline, the acid can flow back down the esophageal tube. The next step is to change the size of your meal. The larger your stomach distends to make room for food, the less room there is for the digestive fluids. Eat smaller portions and this will help alleviate the symptoms. Also look at your diet. Some foods are known to promote reflux. You should avoid ingesting peppermint, chocolate, alcohol and caffeine.
If you have followed these recommendations, and are still having acid reflux, then the doctor may have you take medicine specifically designed for treating acid reflux. One thing you should remember is that there is no cure for acid reflux and you will always have to battle flare-ups. In the case of reflux in which nothing seems to be working, the doctor may have to operate.
How is it treated in infants and children
The treatment plan for adults is basically the same one that doctors prescribe for infants and children. Since it is dangerous for infants to sleep on pillows, there are special wedges designed to go under the mattress to allow the infant and child to sleep elevated. There is also foam wedges designed to go inside the crib to keep the child in one position. These are safe to use and the paediatrician will show you how to use them correctly.
What if conventional treatments are not working
If diet, exercise, avoiding trigger foods and medicine are not working the doctor may suggest surgery. Fundoplication is a procedure where the esophagus is tightened where it enters through the diaphragm. After this is complete the doctor will create an artificial esophageal sphincter by taking the upper portion of the stomach that lays closest to the opening of the esophagus and wraps it around the lower part of the esophagus. Fortunately, this entire procedure is performed through small openings by use of laparoscopy. That means shorter recovery time and is far less invasive than an abdominal cut.
For more information on the causes and treatment of Acid Reflux disease visit Acid Reflux Information Resource where you can discover more about what Acid Reflux is and why it affects so many people, regardless of age. Find out if you have the Symptoms of Heartburn Acid Reflux Disease and how you can treat it.
