What is Acid Reflux?

Acid Reflux, or Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) is the term given to a condition in which contents from the stomach rise up into the oesophagus. Acid from the stomach can inflame the delicate ling of the oesophagus. It is a chronic condition that normally lasts a lifetime.

Causes of Acid Reflux

The causes of acid reflux are complex and varied. The most common factors are the lower oesophageal sphincter, hiatal hernias, oesophageal contractions, and stomach emptying.

The lower oesophageal sphincter (LES)- is a ring of muscle that surrounds the lower end of the oesophagus where it joins the stomach. The LES relaxes to allow food and saliva to pass into the stomach and then contracts to seal the oesophagus from the stomach. Patients with GERD may have an abnormally weak LES. This reduces its ability to prevent reflux. The second abnormality of the LES is that in some cases it has exaggerated relaxed periods, extending long after cessation of swallowing. This allows acid to flow into the oesophagus over a longer period and accumulate.

Hiatal Hernias- This is when a small part of the upper stomach pushes through the diaphragm and into the abdomen. This impairs the LES’ ability to function optimally.

Oesophageal contractions- When we swallow waves of contractions, food and saliva is carried into the stomach. These contractions are known as peristalsis. In some suffers of GERD these contractions can be abnormal in a variety of ways. In cases of severe GERD, it is common that the contractions are too weak to completely clear the oesophagus of stomach acid.

Stomach emptying- Some patients with GERD may have an abnormally slow rate of stomach emptying. When the stomach is digesting food stomach acids are in their most active state, therefore the slower the process the more time acid reflux has to occur.

Acid Reflux Treatment

Medications may be used that reduce stomach acidity. Antacid medication may become a regular part of a sufferer’s daily routine, and can be particularly beneficial in easing symptoms at night. More importantly in most cases, doctors advise the following lifestyle changes:

- It is advised that large meals should be avoided; instead eat more frequent, smaller meals to prevent excessive acid production and to speed stomach emptying.

- Fatty foods, chocolate and peppermint should be avoided because they relax the LES. Highly acidic or bitter foods may irritate the oesophagus and should also be limited in their consumption.

- People who suffer from acid reflux should not lie down within 2 hours of eating. The effect of gravity while standing aids in removing acid from the oesophagus. Bending or twisting movements should be avoided as they upset the stomach’s contents and may promote reflux. Smoking should also be avoided. Smoking relaxes the LES for up to 6 hours after having a cigarette.

In most individuals these measures will make a significant contribution in alleviating much of the discomfort associated with GERD. In some cases surgery may also be an option. The procedure is aimed at strengthening the LES. The surgery is minimally invasive and has a high success rate.

Complete Guide To Stopping Acid Reflux

Discover the causes of acid reflux and how to prevent it.

Learn how acid reflux is diagnosed.

Naturally treat acid reflux 8 different ways.

Information on herbal supplements that can help treat the condition.

Extensive tips on what to eat and what not to eat.

Find out much more on how to completely stop acid reflux. Another book that can guide you to permanently curing acid reflux involves a simple 5 step program.