Acid Reflux Help
October 13th, 2011Acid reflux help is needed my millions of individuals around the world. Acid reflux, also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD), or gastic reflux disease is a result of stomach acid coming from the stomach into the esophagus causing symptoms described as “chronic heartburn”. Acid reflux effects up to 20% of the population of some nations around the world.
Acid reflux is normally a result of a problem with the lower esophageal sphincter, the part of the stomach that keeps it closed from the esophagus. Acid reflux effects all ages and sexes. While difficult to detect in children, is estimated to effect 4 million babies born in the U.S. each year but is more common with adults ages 60 to 70.
While suffering from consistent heartburn is a good sign of having acid reflux disease, the only true test is to see a Gastroenterologist. A Gastroenterologist will typically hook a patient to a esophageal pH monitor. This device will monitor the pH level in the patents stomach to determine if there is excessive levels of acid entering the esophagus. Sometimes the patient will wear the monitor for a short period of time while receiving medication to determine the effects of the medication on their acid levels. A endoscopy is used a times to inspect the surface of the esophagus and stomach to determine if any damage has occurred as a result of the high acid levels. Furthermore a biopsies may be performed so an actual piece of the stomach lining can be tested.
There are several treatment options available for acid reflux help:
Diet, smoking, and alcohol can have a dramatic effect on a persons symtoms.
Sleeping position has been shown to reduce nightime reflux symptoms, which is the most reported time patiets have stated they have problems.
There are several medications, over-the-counter, presciption, as well as all natural options avaible to sufferers.
For most people who believe they are suffering from acid reflux, their treatment will begin with simple lifestyle changes in an attempt to cure the problem. Losing weight, stopping smoking, and avoiding acidic foods will be where they start. Elevating the head of the bed, as well as using standard antacids before meals will also be used before starting a more formal treatment. Once prescription only medications, Prilosec and Prevacid, are available now over-the-counter which will help most people with their symptoms if they continue after attempting the above mentioned practices. Doctors still have more powerful prescription only medications as well as having surgery as an option to treat those that still need help.
There are many options for acid reflux help available to those that need it. You can often attempt to cure your symptoms yourself with the above mentioned practices. If in doubt though always seek the advise of your family doctor who may recommend you see a specialist if they feel it is necessary.
If you suffer from persistant heartburn, acid reflux help may be what you need. If left untreated, the esophagus can be damaged which will only lead to larger problems down the road. While the symptoms may be easy to suppress, the underlying issues of what is causing the disease is needed to be known and treated instead of being covered up.
