Gastroesophageal Reflux
The esophagus is the conduit that takes food and liquids from the mouth to the stomach, in its union with the stomach there’s a valve that closes after passing food to the stomach, when this valve does not close correctly, the food contained in the stomach or acid and gastric juices reflux (flow back) in a repeated form towards the esophagus, tissues become inflamed and they are ulcerated, this is known as esophagitis, symptoms are a burning sensation in the chest, pain and pression, as well as in the mouth of the stomach, some times a bitter flavored liquid is regurgitated that arrives to the mouth, also it can cause bleeding, black feces, anemia and vomit.
The hiatal hernia is an important factor in the production of this reflux, since it appears up to 70% of the patients affected with this disease.
What to do?
- Consult with your physician for a complete evaluation.
- By endoscopy we can evaluate the severity of the damage to the esophagus and the presence of hiatal hernia.
- The treatment is directed to eliminate the aggressors in the reflux, like irritable and acid foods, as well as to stimulate the valve’s movements that are working inadequately.
- This is achieved with medication (65% of the patients respond them). When a suitable solution does no exist for them surgical handling is required (anti-reflux surgery thru laparoscopy).
Recomendations:
- Ingest food in smaller amounts and with more frequency.
- Avoid to eat before lying down (at least two hours).
- Correct overweight that can induce these group of symptoms.
- Eliminate abdominal exercises
- Eliminate everything that increases abdominal pressure like tight clothes and belts.
Gastroesophageal Reflux Diseases
Diseases
