What Causes Acid Reflux Disease?
Acid reflux or GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease) can be caused by several factors, such as abnormalities of the lower esophageal sphincter, which cause decreased esophageal pressure or more frequent opening than normal. This can result from alcohol consumption, smoking, certain foods and medications, being overweight, stress, or abnormalities in the contraction of the esophagus or stomach, increasing the chance of acid reflux from the stomach into the esophagus.
Is the Disease or Symptom… Acid Reflux? Find Out This Way
- Esophageal manometry (measuring esophageal muscle function)
- Esophageal pH monitoring (measuring acid reflux in the esophagus)
- Gastroscopy (endoscopic examination of the esophagus and stomach)
“Acid Reflux” Can Be Treated!
- Lifestyle modification
- Avoid foods that may cause the disease
- Treatment with medication
- Surgery
Behaviors to Change… to Treat “Acid Reflux”
Personal Habits
- Avoid stress and quit smoking
- Avoid wearing tight or restrictive clothing, especially around the waist
- Try to lose weight if overweight
- If constipated, treat it and avoid straining during bowel movements
Eating Habits
- After eating, avoid exercising, lifting heavy objects, twisting, or bending immediately; wait at least 3 hours
- Eat low-fat foods; avoid fried foods, fatty foods, hard-to-digest foods, certain vegetables such as onions, garlic, tomatoes, and fast food
- Avoid foods like chocolate, nuts, candies, peppermints, butter, eggs, milk, or strongly flavored foods such as very spicy, sour, salty, or sweet foods; coffee, tea, soft drinks, energy drinks, and alcoholic beverages
- Eat moderate portions at each meal; do not overeat
Sleeping Habits
- Do not lie down immediately after eating; wait at least 3 hours
- When sleeping, elevate the head of the bed about 6-10 inches from the flat surface
How to Take Acid Reflux Medication Correctly?
You should take medication regularly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not reduce the dose or stop the medication on your own. Follow up with your doctor regularly to adjust the dosage. Do not buy medication on your own when sick, as some medications can increase stomach acid secretion or relax the lower esophageal sphincter more. About 90% of patients with GERD symptoms can control their symptoms with medication.
