Although acid reflux is another popular disease, few people pay attention… to completely curing acid reflux! They only relieve symptoms by taking antacids, which Dr. Amarit Tansawet, a specialist in laparoscopic surgery at Phyathai 2 Hospital explained that… taking antacids may only be a temporary solution, but surgery… is the most effective treatment for acid reflux.
Burning sensation in the middle of the chest: the initial symptom indicating “acid reflux”
Acid reflux is a disease that occurs in the digestive system caused by abnormalities in the stomach sphincter, which is the junction between the esophagus and the stomach. Normally, this area relaxes to allow us to “burp” when we eat a full meal or feel bloated. But when the symptom of “burning sensation in the middle of the chest” (Heartburn) starts from the back up to the chest area, some people may also feel a “sour taste rising in the throat” which means that stomach acid is rising up to the esophagus due to deterioration, relaxation, or abnormal loosening of the stomach sphincter.
Mild acid reflux can be treated… by behavioral modification
Dr. Amarit Tansawet, a specialist in laparoscopic surgery at Phyathai 2 Hospital gives simple advice for treating acid reflux that can be done by oneself, suitable for those with mild acid reflux. It only requires behavioral changes, especially avoiding large meals and buffet-style eating that cause the stomach to expand and the sphincter to stretch, leading to acid reflux. Avoid alcoholic beverages, tea, coffee, and chocolate, which stimulate the sphincter to relax more. If behavioral changes do not help, it is necessary to consult a doctor for diagnosis and further treatment planning.
Did you know? Taking antacids may only be a temporary solution
Taking antacids is a common treatment for acid reflux, but it has limitations as it cannot completely cure acid reflux. If patients stop taking the medication, the condition may recur. The doctor explains that… this may only be a temporary fix because the main cause is an abnormality of the stomach sphincter. In some patients with severe complications, such as acid reflux damaging the esophagus or reflux reaching the bronchial tubes, causing hoarseness or asthma, antacids are not indicated.
New approach… treating acid reflux with laparoscopic surgery
Treatment of acid reflux has introduced laparoscopic surgery techniques to treat severe acid reflux, showing better results for patients. The surgery involves tightening the stomach sphincter by wrapping the upper part of the stomach around the sphincter to make it tighter. The surgery leaves only small scars from five small incisions on the abdomen. It is suitable for patients with severe acid reflux and those who do not want to take antacids continuously for a long time or frequently relapse, affecting their quality of life.
How to know if it is really acid reflux… or just a misconception
Laparoscopic surgery may be a safe method performed by specialists, but before being sure it is acid reflux, there may be other similar abnormalities. If you suspect symptoms similar to acid reflux, it is recommended to see a doctor at the Gastroenterology and Liver Center for further diagnosis to find the true cause of the symptoms. The important thing is to diagnose whether it is really acid reflux or not by diagnosis from patient history may not be as accurate as measurement by precise equipment through two main steps as follows:
- Esophageal function test by inserting a tube into the esophagus to locate the stomach sphincter and check for other abnormalities in the esophagus.
Latest technique! High resolution manometry is the newest tool in the field of digestive system diseases. It can examine the movement and motility of the digestive system in high detail, leading to a clear diagnosis and personalized surgical planning. - Measurement of stomach acid levels which involves inserting a very thin tube connected to an acid reflux measuring device. The patient must carry the device for 24 hours, after which the results are analyzed to see if the amount of acid reflux meets diagnostic criteria. If the amount is high, surgery may be considered on a case-by-case basis.
Sphincter surgery for acid reflux treatment is a standard method with high safety and very few complications. There may be difficulty swallowing in the first 2-3 weeks after surgery, which can be helped by consuming liquid foods. After that, it gradually improves.
Dr. Amarit Tansawet
Specialist in laparoscopic surgery
Surgical Center, Phyathai 2 Hospital
