Burning in the esophagus that reaches up to the throat, persistent heartburn, and significant discomfort when eating certain foods. These are some of the main characteristics of gastroesophageal reflux, a problem that affects millions of people worldwide. But why does it happen? How can it be treated? Is there a cure? These and other questions will be answered in today’s text. So, if you’re curious to learn everything about the subject, check it out now!
What is Gastroesophageal Reflux?
The first thing we should address is what gastroesophageal reflux is and why it occurs. Also known as GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) or simply reflux, this condition is chronic, meaning it persists for a long period of time and tends to be more evident at certain times.
This disease essentially consists of the backflow of stomach acid into the esophagus. The main problem is that the lining of the esophagus is not prepared to handle such acidic liquids, which irritates it, causing various symptoms and other complications. In more severe cases, this problem can reach the larynx, mouth, and even the lungs.
The causes of gastroesophageal reflux are usually related to weaknesses in the structure of the stomach, which allow gastric juice to flow back into the esophagus. Another known cause is a hiatal hernia, which causes the transition between the esophagus and stomach to shift.
Symptoms of Gastroesophageal Reflux
Gastroesophageal reflux is a disease that presents various quite noticeable symptoms. They are:
- Persistent heartburn
- Bad breath
- Dry cough
- Severe chest pain, which is often confused with a heart attack
- Burning in the pit of the stomach that can reach up to the throat
If a person experiences one or a combination of some of these symptoms, it is important that they see a doctor as soon as possible so an accurate diagnosis can be made and treatment can be performed in the best possible way.
How is the Diagnosis Made?
The diagnosis of gastroesophageal reflux is made based on the patient’s report of symptoms to their doctor. From there, a digestive endoscopy and a pH monitoring test are prescribed, which together can indicate whether it really is gastroesophageal reflux disease or not.
Risk Factors
The risk groups for gastroesophageal reflux are directly related to habits or conditions that facilitate the development of stomach weaknesses, which in turn causes the disease. Some of the main risk factors are:
- Obesity
- Smoking
- Use of certain medications
- Hiatal Hernia
- Pregnancy
- Diabetes
- Excessive intake of acidic foods
It is important to remember that even if a person is not in this group, the disease can still occur, as these are just some of the factors that contribute to its development. That is why everyone should prevent and take the necessary precautions to avoid problems like this.
Treatment for Gastroesophageal Reflux
First of all, it is important to emphasize that there is no cure for gastroesophageal reflux disease. However, there are treatments that have proven to be quite effective in controlling symptoms and allow a person with the disease to live a completely normal life.
The most conventional form of treatment is through the use of medications that reduce stomach acidity. Its effect is even greater when the patient follows recommendations such as exercising, avoiding lying down right after eating, and adopting a specific, less acidic diet.
There is also surgical treatment, which is indicated when reflux is very frequent, causing complications such as esophagitis, for example. Surgery is also indicated when medication-based treatment does not produce the expected effects.
How to Prevent Gastroesophageal Reflux
Some measures a person can take to avoid developing the disease are:
- Avoid smoking
- Do not overuse alcohol
- Do not overconsume acidic foods
- Do not consume beverages like coffee, tea, or soda in excess
- Maintain a balanced diet
- Exercise regularly
- Eat light meals and don’t rush while eating
- Do not lie down right after eating, especially after heavier meals such as pasta with sauce
Taking these measures and adopting these healthier lifestyle habits will not only help prevent gastroesophageal reflux, but also bring many other benefits to your life and your health.
Possible Complications
If gastroesophageal reflux disease is not treated properly, some complications may arise, such as:
- Esophagitis, a disease characterized by inflammation of the esophagus
- Erosive esophagitis, characterized by the development of ulcers in the esophagus
- Narrowing of the esophagus
- Malignant tumors
As you can see, gastroesophageal reflux is a disease that affects many people, but it can be prevented or at least controlled by adopting healthy habits in your life. Because it is a chronic disease, many may think that treatment is pointless, but it is precisely with a doctor’s help that you can control the disease and maintain a healthy life and, most importantly, enjoy eating and drinking without worrying about pain. Always with responsibility and awareness, of course.
