Acid reflux is described by MayoClinic.com as the backward flow of stomach acids into the esophagus, the tube that connects the throat to the stomach. When the acid enters the esophagus, it causes several uncomfortable symptoms, including the characteristic effect referred to as heartburn. Nearly every adult experiences heartburn at least once. For some, more persistent acid reflux can interfere with daily life and requires treatment.
Causes
The physical cause of heartburn is the spontaneous opening of the lower esophageal sphincter, a band of muscles that connects the esophagus with the stomach. This band acts like a gate by trapping stomach contents. If the muscles are weak, they can be easily forced open during digestion of foods in the stomach. Repeated acid exposure, typically caused by a more severe form of reflux called gastroesophageal reflux disease, can weaken the "gate" over time. A lack of gravity, such as that experienced when lying down after a meal, enables stomach contents to flow back up the esophagus. Several foods and beverages can increase acidity in the stomach, which contributes to the problem. Among these are spicy foods, fried foods, fatty foods and beverages containing caffeine or alcohol. Overeating and wearing tight-fitting clothes can put pressure on the stomach, forcing the contents to rush through the esophageal sphincter.
Symptoms
A burning sensation in the chest is the most characteristic symptom of acid reflux. This symptom can worsen when the person is lying down or bending over. Some adults may regurgitate a small amount of sour liquid, similar to vomit, into the mouth.
Prevention
Losing excess weight can help relieve acid reflux, MayoClinic.com says. In addition, all of the common causes of acid reflux should be avoided: tight-fitting clothes, trigger foods, trigger beverages and large meals. Eating should end at least two to three hours before bedtime. Adults who frequently experience reflux in the night can sleep at a slight incline to use gravity in keeping the contents of the stomach down. Smokers should quit, as smoking can weaken the lower esophageal sphincter.
Treatment
Several over-the-counter and prescription medicines treat acid reflux. Antacids come in chewable tablets and a liquid form. These medicines neutralize acid but are only useful for short-term relief. Another type of medication, available over-the-counter and by prescription, reduces the production of stomach acid. Commonly used types include cimetidine, famotidine, nizatidine and ranitidine. These drugs take longer to work than antacids, suggests MayoClinic.com, but the results are longer-lasting. Adults with more persistent or severe acid reflux may choose a medication that both controls acid and heals damage to the esophagus. These drugs are known as proton pump inhibitors. Those available over the counter include lansoprazole or omeprazole.
Complications
Heartburn that occurs more than twice a week can be a sign of gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, according to Medline Plus. This condition can cause open sores, called ulcers, in the esophagus and stomach. When over-the-counter and prescription medications no longer have an effect on symptoms of acid reflux, it is likely the individual has GERD. FamilyDoctor.org points out that sometimes a more significant health condition causes heartburn, such as inflammation of the stomach lining or a hiatal hernia, which involves the protrusion of a section of the stomach. A hernia of this type can extend upward, creating pressure on the diaphragm and pushing the stomach contents upward.
