Difference between revisions of "Acid Reflux Disease"

Revision as of 07:58, 18 November 2009

Acid reflux, also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD, occurs when acid flows back into the esophagus from the stomach. It can produce symptoms such as heartburn, chest pain and sore throat. Over time, the back flow of stomach acid into the esophagus can cause other health complications, such as damage to the cells of the esophagus, worn down tissues in the esophagus that cause open sores to develop and even precancerous esophageal changes. It can lead to a condition called Barrett's Esophagus and cancer.

Barrett's Esophagus

Barrett's esophagus is a disorder in which the lining of the esophagus is damaged. This damage occurs when parts of the esophageal lining are repeatedly exposed to stomach acid, and are replaced by tissue that is similar to what is found intestine. This process is called intestinal metaplasia.

With Barrett's esophagus, abnormal intestinal-like cells develop in the throat.

Source: Barrett's Esophagus

Treatment

If your acid reflux symptoms become chronic, contact your doctor so that he or she can determine whether or not there has been damage to the esophagus.

Your doctor can provide you with the proper medication to treat the disease, such as with proton pump inhibitors, H2 blockers or promotility agents.

Source: Tips for Acid Reflux Relief

Diet Change

Avoid foods that are known to contribute to acid reflux. Avoid the following:

• onions
• garlic
• fried and fatty foods
• chocolate
• spicy foods
• heavily seasoned foods
• alcohol
• citrus fruits
• peppermint
• caffeine
• orange juice
• tomato juice