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Stomach acid is the strong substance that allows us to digest our food and absorb nutrients. If your body is functioning normally, you probably never give your stomach acid much thought.<\/p>\nLast updated 10 February 2022<\/small><\/p>
Stomach acid is the strong substance that allows us to digest our food and absorb nutrients. If your body is functioning normally, you probably never give your stomach acid much thought.<\/p>\n
However, if the acid makes its way into the oesophagus it can be quite uncomfortable. It may simply manifest itself as a burning sensation and unpleasant taste in your mouth, but acid reflux can also be the sign of something more serious. It could be a warning from your body that you need to transition to a healthier life style.<\/p>\n
When learning more about acid reflux, note that the term Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD) refers to the spectrum of conditions related to acid reflux; from simple heartburn to oesophagitis<\/b>. The cause, duration, and intensity of your acid reflux will help determine the proper course of treatment.<\/p>\nWhat causes acid reflux?<\/h2>\n
At the bottom of your oesophagus is the Lower Oesophageal Sphincter<\/strong> (LOS). This is a ring of muscle that acts as a valve, ensuring that the food you eat goes into your stomach and the acid stays where it is meant to be. When this valve cannot close properly, acid rises into the oesophagus<\/b> and the unpleasant symptoms such as bloating, regurgitation, nausea, and hiccups begin.<\/p>\n There are many reasons why your LOS can weaken and allow acid to pass through. Determining the exact cause of each patient’s acid reflux can be difficult. The following are the most common factors that put you at risk:<\/p>\n Acid reflux and all of its symptoms are treatable<\/b>. The first step should be to eliminate risk factors and make lifestyle adjustments<\/i>. Losing weight and quitting smoking are highly recommendable. Cutting down on fat, coffee, alcohol and other irritating substances is also important.<\/p>\n When it comes to medication Losec<\/a> (omeprazole), Nexium<\/a> (esomeprazole), and pantoprazole<\/a> are the most commonly prescribed. All are effective for occasional episodes of acid reflux.<\/p>\n If you experience repeated episodes of acid reflux, medication can be taken on an ‘as needed’ basis in the dosage prescribed by your general practitioner.<\/p>\n If after 4-5 days of treatments your symptoms have not responded to treatment, or if the intensity of the acid reflux episodes is high, you should speak to your doctor immediately<\/b>. It may be a sign of oesophagitis.<\/p>\n Extreme or prolonged cases of acid reflux can lead to oesophagitis, which is an inflammation of the lining of the oesophagus. If your heartburn is very intense and does not fade away nor respond to standard treatment, it is important to seek help from a health professional as soon as possible.<\/p>\n Oesophagitis can lead to scarring, narrowing of the tissue, ulcers and make you more prone to developing cancerous cells.<\/p>\n Your GP should be able to diagnose normal acid reflux just from evaluating your symptoms, however if you experience intense symptoms such as difficulty swallowing<\/b>, an endoscopy may be required. This procedure consists of a long tube with a camera and a light on one end that is lowered through the patient\u2019s throat to determine the state of the oesophagus and stomach lining. It can help your doctor diagnose and treat your specific case.<\/p>\n You do not have to live with heartburn. A visit to your GP can help you determine the cause of your acid reflux and how to treat it before it progresses to oesophagitis. Healthy lifestyle changes and appropriate medication can be enough to help stop the burn.<\/p>\n\n
How do you treat it?<\/h2>\n
Acid reflux treatment \u00a0<\/span><\/a>
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<\/a><\/div>\nOesophagitis<\/h2>\n