What are acid reflux and GORD?
Gastro-oesophageal reflux, also called "acid reflux," occurs when the stomach contents back up into the esophagus and/or mouth. Occasional reflux is normal and can happen in healthy infants, children, and adults, most often after eating a meal. Most episodes are brief and do not cause bothersome symptoms or complications.
In contrast, people with gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD) experience bothersome symptoms or damage to the esophagus as a result of acid reflux. Symptoms of GORD can include heartburn, regurgitation, and difficulty or pain with swallowing.
What are the risk factors for acid reflux?
Certain things increase a person's risk of developing GORD, including:
●Hiatus hernia – This is a condition in which part of the upper stomach pushes up through the diaphragm (the large, flat muscle at the base of the lungs). The diaphragm has an opening for the esophagus to pass through before it joins with the stomach (called the "diaphragmatic hiatus"); in people with a hiatal hernia, part of the stomach also squeezes up through this hole.
●Obesity – People who are obese or overweight seem to have an increased risk of GORD. While the reasons for this are not well understood, it is thought to be related to increased pressure in the abdomen.
●Pregnancy – Many women experience acid reflux during pregnancy. This usually resolves after delivery, and complications are rare.
●Lifestyle factors and medications – Some foods (including fatty foods, chocolate, and peppermint), caffeine, alcohol, and cigarette smoking can all cause acid reflux and GORD. Certain medications also increase the risk.
What are the symptoms of acid reflux?
The most common symptoms are:
●Heartburn, which is a burning feeling in the chest
●Regurgitation, which is when acid and undigested food flow back into your throat or mouth
Other symptoms might include:
●Stomach or chest pain
●Trouble swallowing
●Having a raspy voice or a sore throat
●Unexplained cough
●Nausea or vomiting
Is there anything I can do on my own to feel better?Yes. You might feel better if you:
●Lose weight (if you are overweight)
●Raise the head of your bed by 6 to 8 inches – You can do this by putting blocks of wood or rubber under 2 legs of the bed or a foam wedge under the mattress.
●Avoid foods that make your symptoms worse – For some people these include coffee, chocolate, alcohol, peppermint, and fatty foods.
●Stop smoking, if you smoke
●Avoid late meals – Lying down with a full stomach can make reflux worse. Try to plan meals for at least 2 to 3 hours before bedtime.
●Avoid tight clothing – Some people feel better if they wear comfortable clothing that does not squeeze the stomach area.
How is acid reflux treated?
There are a few main types of medicines that can help with the symptoms of acid reflux. The most common are antacids, histamine blockers, and proton pump inhibitors (table 1). All of these medicines work by reducing or blocking stomach acid. But they each do that in a different way.
●For mild symptoms, antacids can help, but they work only for a short time. Histamine blockers are stronger and last longer than antacids. You can buy antacids and most histamine blockers without a prescription.
●For frequent and more severe symptoms, proton pump inhibitors are the most effective medicines. Some of these medicines are sold without a prescription. But there are other versions that your doctor can prescribe.
Sometimes, medicines cost less if you get them with a doctor's prescription. Other times, non-prescription medicines cost less. If you are worried about cost, ask your pharmacist about ways to pay less for your medicines.
Should I see a doctor or nurse about my acid reflux?
Some people can manage their acid reflux on their own by changing their habits or taking non-prescription medicines. But you should see a doctor or nurse if:
●Your symptoms are severe or last a long time
●You cannot seem to control your symptoms
●You have had symptoms for many years
You should also see a doctor or nurse right away if you:
●Have trouble swallowing, or feel as though food gets "stuck" on the way down
●Lose weight when you are not trying to
●Have chest pain
●Choke when you eat
●Vomit blood or have bowel movements that are red, black, or look like tar
What if my child or teenager has acid reflux?
If your child or teenager has acid reflux, take him or her to see a doctor or nurse. Do not give your child medicines to treat acid reflux without talking to a doctor or nurse.
In children, acid reflux can be caused by a number of problems. It's important to have a doctor or nurse check for these problems before trying any treatments.
For more information, please see our doctors at Maple Leaf Medical Centre Thomatown, 181 Edgars Road, Thomastown 3074.
Contact us by calling 03 9464 7997
Make an appointment online at www.mapleleafmedical.com.au/book-online