Gastroesophageal reflux is the return of the stomach contents to the esophagus and mouth, causing pain and inflammation, when the muscle that should prevent stomach acid from coming out inside does not work properly.
The degree of inflammation caused in the esophagus by reflux depends on the acidity of the stomach contents and the amount of acid that comes into contact with the esophageal mucosa, which can cause a disease called esophagitis, because the gastric lining protects against the effects of its own acids, but the esophagus does not have these characteristics, causing an uncomfortable burning sensation.
- The force of gravity contributes to reflux when the individual remains accustomed.
- In situations of obesity where abdominal fat is deposited on the belly and facilitates gastroesophageal reflux.
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The most common symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease are:
Heartburn of the stomach, which causes a burning sensation that goes from the stomach to the esophagus and can even reach the throat;
Regurgitation, in which it is felt that the contents of the food return to the throat without spitting, causing a bitter taste in the throat and mouth;
Frequent nausea, hiccups and belching;
Weight loss for no apparent reason;
Wheezing, if dry, chronic snoring from a sore throat.
In the most severe cases where there is an injury to the lining of the stomach, there may be a dark presence, which means that there is bleeding in the digested needs.
Diagnosis of gastroesophageal reflux disease is based on the patient’s symptoms and context, but can also be supplemented with examples such as:
Your doctor is best positioned to diagnose and treat gastroenterologist reflux, which should be sought if you want to develop this disease.
Food changes to treat this disease are necessary, but should be tailored to medical treatment and should also be customized. Generally, the reflux person should eliminate the reduction in consumption of alcoholic beverages, high-fat foods such as frying and industrial products, avoid eating chocolate, soft drinks, spicy and flatulent foods, and avoid cigarettes and soft drinks. In addition, it is important that the last meal of the day is held 2 to 3 hours before getting used to (at least), thus preventing the contents of the stomach from return to the mouth.
Other important recommendations are to avoid wearing tight clothing and belts, which press on the belly promoting reflux, and a raised pillow should also be placed to maintain an angle of about 45 degrees.
In the most severe cases of gastroesophageal reflux disease, your doctor may recommend surgery to prevent your stomach from entering your esophagus causing the symptoms described above.