Acid Reflux - What is Acid Reflux?

Introduction Acid reflux is the reflux or back flow of stomach liquids into the esophagus, the tube through which food passes into the stomach. Although it is commonly referred to as heartburn, acid reflux has nothing to do with the heart. People feel a burning sensation in the chest and upper abdomen due to the stomach acid that has refluxed into the esophagus. As a disease, acid reflux affects millions worldwide. The medical term for acid reflux disease is Gastro-Esophageal Reflux Disease (GERD).

Occasional reflux of gastric contents into the esophagus is normal in healthy individuals. However, if you suffer from persistent conditions that hinder your daily life, you may have GERD and may need to be treated.

There are many options available for acid reflux treatment. You can look for a wealth of information about acid reflux on the Internet or visit your physician. The great news is that acid reflux is quite manageable. You can choose from many treatment options including lifestyle changes, over-the-counter remedies and prescription drugs. The most effective approach is to combine all forms of treatment. Surgery is available as a last resort for those whose symptoms won't subside.

Causes of Acid Reflux

GERD's most common cause is the frequent relaxation of the sphincter -- a muscular opening that acts like a valve -- that connects the esophagus to the stomach, allowing stomach acid to move up the esophagus. There could be many reasons for this to occur, including delayed emptying of the stomach, obesity and pregnancy in women. These factors increase the pressure within the abdomen, causing the stomach to press against the diaphragm and hence increasing the chances of acid reflux. Also, if the esophagus does not clear the refluxed liquid quickly, heartburn symptoms are felt for longer durations.

You may be able to reduce acid reflux symptoms by making changes in your lifestyle and diet. These include avoiding lying down after a meal, avoiding heavy meals and eating less at more frequent times. It is also important to lose excess weight, keep your head elevated when lying down and abstain from smoking and alcohol. Caffeine rich beverages should also be excluded from your diet. Stress management may also indirectly help in dealing with acid reflux.

If GERD is not treated early on, it can lead to inflammation, ulcers and constrictions in the esophagus, making it severely difficult and painful to swallow. It may also lead to a severe condition known as Barrett's esophagus which may eventually lead to esophageal cancer.

Over-the-counter remedies such as H2 blockers and antacids are available for treating milder forms of GERD. Antacids neutralize the acidic effects, while H2 blockers reduce acid production in the stomach. These may not be so effective if the GERD is more severe. For serious cases of acid reflux, more powerful drugs such as proton pump inhibitors may help. As a final note, it should be remembered that acid reflux medications are most effective when accompanied by changes in eating habits