Acid reflux is both a common and abnormal condition in which acid from the stomach rises up into the esophagus. It is caused by a malfunctioning valve that separates the esophagus from the stomach. Complications of chronic acid reflux may include esophageal stricture or narrowing of the esophagus, esophageal ulcers or pre-cancerous condition referred to as Barret's esophagus. Ulcers or open sores in the stomach lining can occur with chronic acid reflux and are also referred to as gastric ulcers or peptic ulcers.
Causes of Acid Reflux
There are multiple causes for acid reflux although it is most frequently caused by acid reflux or the back-up of stomach acid or bile into the esophagus. If the esophageal sphincter relaxes, abnormal stomach acid can flow back up into the esophagus causing frequent heartburn. Constant heartburn can irritate the lining of the esophagus causing inflammation. Over time the inflammation can cause complications such as erosion of the esophagus, bleeding and esophageal ulcers.
Symptoms of Acid Reflux and Ulcers
Heartburn is a common symptom of acid reflux and is typically described as a burning sensation in the chest that sometimes spreads to the throat. A burning pain is also a common symptom of a peptic ulcer that is aggravated by stomach acid coming in contact with an ulcerated area. Regurgitation is another symptom of acid reflux and is defined as the appearance of refluxed liquid in the mouth. Nausea may be another sign of acid reflux and in severe cases may result in vomiting.
Compications of Acid Relfux and Ulcers
Stomach acid liquids can damage the lining of the esophagus. The body responds in inflammation of the area to help neutralize and ultimately heal. Once the damage goes deep enough ulcers can develop. Ulcers and inflammation can erode the esophageal blood vessels and cause bleeding in the esophagus. Peptic ulcers can eat a hole through the stomach or small intestine that can increase the risk for infection. Also bleeding can lead to anemia or in severe cases the need for a blood transfusion. Ulcers can also produce scar tissue which can obstruct the passage of food through the digestive tract. Chronic reflux can also lead to a pre-cancerous condition known as Barrett's esophagus.
Treatment with Drugs
Antacids such as Maalox, Mylanta, Gelusil, Rolaids and Tums remain a main treatment for reflux and provide quick relief. Antacids alone can help neutralize stomach acid but will not heal an inflamed esophagus. For more effective relief of acid-related disease, histamine antagonists are recommended to help prevent histamine from stimulating acid-producing cells, thus promoting healing as well. These products are available by both prescription and over-the-counter. Proton pump inhibitors are also used to block the secretion of acid in the stomach by acid-secreting cells and typically act longer than histamine antagonists. These drugs are also available by both prescription and over-the-counter. Antibiotic medications may also be prescribed to treat peptic ulcers to kill the bacteria, Helicobactor pylori.
Lifestyle Remedies to Treat Reflux
Several lifestyle remedies are recommended to help reduce the frequency of heartburn and help promote healing. Smoking is not recommended as it decreases the esophageal sphincter's ability to function properly and may also interfere with the protective lining of the stomach making it more susceptible to developing an ulcer. Maintaining a healthy weight also helps avoid added pressure on the abdomen which can cause acid reflux. Foods that can trigger heartburn should also be avoided which can include fatty or fried foods, alcohol, chocolate, mint, garlic, onion and caffeine. It is also recommended that you don't lie down or recline after a meal. Wait at least two to three hours after eating before going to bed.
