THE gastroesophageal reflux is a common condition that affects millions of people. It occurs when the stomach contents returns to the esophagus, provoking symptoms as heartburn, burning and acid regurgitation. The gastroesophageal reflux disease can harm quality of life if left unchecked, but fortunately there are several forms of treatment that help relieve symptoms and prevent more serious complications. In this article, you will learn how to recognize the symptoms of reflux, understand your causes, discover tips to prevent reflux and know the treatment options more effective.
Summary
Explanatory video about Reflux Gastroesophageal:
What is gastroesophageal reflux?
THE gastroesophageal reflux is a digestive condition characterized by return of stomach contents into the esophagus. This is because the lower esophageal sphincter, which should act as a valve to keep acid in the stomach, does not close properly.
This malfunction may allow the acid and digestive enzymes cause irritation in the tube esophageal, leading to inflammation and discomfort. The gerd is a disease which can be diagnosed through tests such as upper digestive endoscopy, pHmetry and esophageal motility studies.
What are the symptoms of reflux?
You gastroesophageal reflux symptoms vary from person to person. Among the main symptoms, they are:
- Burning in the chest (heartburn), especially right after meals
- Acid regurgitation
- Difficulty swallowing
- Burning sensation in the throat
- Hoarseness and chronic cough
Repeated reflux can cause esophagitis, one inflammation node esophagus. In chronic, untreated cases, reflux can even increase the risk of esophageal cancer.
Reflux in babies: how to identify and treat
THE reflux in babies is common and occurs because the esophageal sphincter is still under development. Signs include frequent regurgitation, crying after breastfeeding, irritability, and difficulty gaining weight.
Initial treatment usually involves simple measures, such as keeping the baby upright after feedings and offering smaller, more frequent feedings. More severe cases may require clinical evaluation and the use of medications that reduce acid production.
Reflux during pregnancy: is it normal? How can I relieve it?
THE Gastroesophageal reflux is common during pregnancy, caused by hormonal changes and pressure from the uterus on the stomach. most common symptoms include heartburn and burning sensation, especially after meals.
To alleviate symptoms, it is recommended to eat smaller meals, avoid lying down immediately after eating and elevate the head of the bed. Fatty foods, alcoholic and caffeinated drinks should be avoided. reflux treatment during pregnancy should always be guided by a health professional.
What causes reflux?
THE gastroesophageal reflux disease can be caused by:
- Sphincter malfunction lower esophageal
- Hiatal hernia, which facilitates the passage of stomach contents into the esophagus
- Inadequate nutrition
- Obesity
- Use of medications that affect the digestive system
Avoiding these factors can prevent reflux and reduce the frequency of reflux episodes.
Laryngopharyngeal reflux: what it is and how to treat it
THE laryngopharyngeal reflux occurs when the acid rises to the larynx and vocal cords, causing symptoms such as hoarseness, chronic cough and lump in the throat. Unlike traditional reflux, there is not always heartburn.
Treatment involves dietary changes, elevating the head of the bed, avoiding acidic foods and the use of medicines to reduce acidity. It is essential to follow up with a clinical or gastroenterologist.
Can reflux cause coughing?
Yes, reflux can irritate the esophagus and the throat, provoking chronic cough. The cough caused by reflux It usually gets worse at night or when lying down.
THE diagnosis and treatment Proper exercise can help reduce the frequency of coughing and improve quality of life. Avoiding trigger foods and maintaining good posture after eating are simple measures that can help.
Acid reflux: what you need to know
When the acid reaches the throat, the patient may present sensitivity, burning and constant urge to clear throat. These symptoms can be confused with allergies or respiratory infections.
It is important to note the frequency of symptoms and consult a doctor. Treatment usually involves acidity control and dietary adjustments.
Is there a cure for reflux?
THE gastroesophageal reflux can be successfully controlled, although there is not always a definitive cure. Most patients improve with drug treatment, lifestyle changes and symptom control.
In the most severe cases, the surgery can be an option. Procedures such as fundoplication strengthen the esophageal sphincter and reduce reflux repetition.
👉 Reflux is a common sign that something is wrong with your digestion. See our complete guide to digestion how to deal with this and other symptoms naturally.
Reflux treatment: what are the most effective options?
THE reflux treatment includes:
- Lifestyle changes, how to avoid acidic foods and maintain ideal weight
- Use of antacids, H2 blockers and proton pump inhibitors to reduce the production of acid by the stomach
- Surgery, in cases of reflux resistant to clinical treatment
THE best treatment depends on the degree of the disease, the symptoms and the patient's response to therapies.
Conclusion: What to remember about reflux
- THE gastroesophageal reflux is the return of acid from the stomach to the esophagus
- Cause symptoms as heartburn, regurgitation and burning in the chest
- It can lead to esophagitis or esophageal cancer if not treated
- THE endoscopy is an essential exam for the diagnosis and treatment
- It is possible prevent reflux with changes in diet and daily habits
- THE reflux treatment is effective and can improve symptoms in most cases
- Consulting a specialist is important to avoid complications
If you suffers from gastroesophageal reflux, do not ignore the symptoms. Seek medical help and start proper treatment to ensure more comfort and well-being in your daily life.
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