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Magnifying Acid Reflux
By M. A. Fulmar

Gastro Esophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) is the medical term for the, chronic symptom of, mucosal damage to the esophagus caused by the production of abnormal reflux of gastric contents into the esophagus. We know this as “Acid Reflux”.

The disease is more common amongst adults but can also effect both infants and children. Acid reflux is usually caused by the eating of certain foods, It can be more noticeable if you are pregnant or if you go to sleep immediately after eating a large meal.

Acid reflux is often refered to as heartburn or acid indigestion.. Heartburn is the most common symptom of Acid Reflux in the esophagus. It can be described as a burning uneasiness towards the back of the sternum.

Symptoms experienced may be any of the following: coughing, voice transformation, hoarseness, constant ear ache, or sinusitis. Complications can be brought on by the acid reflux which can lead to esophageal ulcers or, in some extreme cases, this can lead to esophageal cancer.

Please be aware that onstant heartburn sensations do not always mean that you are suffering from GERD already. The risks increase when heartburn is suffered from for more than once a week, under these circumastances there is a chance that you may end up suffereing from GERD.

The usual cause of GERD is the increase in acidity or gastric acid production in the body, obesity, pregnancy, or tight-fitting apparels, these all can add to the problem. The yeast infections are also thought to be one of the causes of GERD-like symptoms.

Suffering from GERD can ultimately lead to an insufficient production of stomach acid in the body. The digestive system is a one-way-system and the movement of food is maintained by the use of valves along the system. In cases of GER the valves, are like little flaps, become damaged and thus allows the contents of the stomach to move backwards up into the esophagus where the acid causes irritation.

Fortunately there are several treatments available for the treatment of GERD. One of the simplest methods of control is to develop balanced and healthy eating habits. If you find that a change of diet fails to work you should seek medical advice and discuss with your doctor the options of medication therapy or surgery.

Below is a lists of several treatments which are available for Acid Refluxt:

• Proper Diet: As mentioned above the easiest and most natural way to control or even cure Acid Reflux is through the changing of eating habits. Many people affected by GERD have found relief from acid reflux using only this method. The most basic changes are to avoid the food ingredients which you have found to intensify heartburn. These foods are likely to include caffeine, soft drinks, and smoking. It is also advisable to allow more than two hours to pass after eating a meal before you sleep, you should also avoid lying down after taking meal as you will find this too can lead to reflux.

• Elevate the head: l Raise the head of the bed by six to eight inches (20cm). This will help reduce the backflow of gastic fluids (acids) and this should help produce upto 95% relief from acid reflux. It should be noted that the simple raising of pillows is not sufficient as the whole of the head end of the bed needs to be raised and NOT just your head.

• Drug Treatment: There are drugs available which help reduce the secretion of the gastric acid. Acid reflux drugs include famotidine and omeprazole Antacids are also available which reduce the overall acidity in the stomach.

• Surgical treatment: The most widely used surgical treatment for Acid Reflux is Nissen fundoplication. Unfortunately the process is not a long term solution to GERD but can help for a short time. Laparoscopy can also help which helps reduce the need for medication.

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