What Helps with Acid Reflux? Suggestions to Reduce Acid Reflux Symptoms

Acid reflux is a common digestive issue that occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus. This can lead to symptoms such as a burning sensation in the chest, a bitter or sour taste in the throat, difficulty swallowing, hoarseness, coughing, or even asthma-like symptoms. If acid reflux persists over a long period, it may cause serious complications like inflammation of the esophagus, ulcers, or even cancer. Acid reflux can negatively impact quality of life, but certain dietary and lifestyle changes can help reduce or prevent its symptoms. These changes may help control acid reflux without the need for medication. In the following text, you will find a detailed answer to the question, "What helps with acid reflux?" If you want to learn more about acid reflux, feel free to read on.

What Causes Acid Reflux?

Acid reflux occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), a muscular valve between the esophagus and stomach, does not function properly. The LES is responsible for closing after food is swallowed to prevent stomach acid from flowing back into the esophagus. For various reasons, the LES may relax or weaken, allowing stomach acid to enter the esophagus.

Several factors can cause or trigger acid reflux. Some of these factors include:

• Eating large meals or consuming very fatty and spicy foods
• Certain health conditions such as pregnancy, obesity, diabetes, or asthma
• Certain medications (e.g., aspirin, ibuprofen, antihistamines, or muscle relaxants)
• Stress, anxiety, or depression

These situations can lead to stomach acid seeping into the esophagus.

What Helps with Acid Reflux?

Certain lifestyle changes may help alleviate acid reflux. Here are some approaches that may help:

• Eating small, slow meals
• Avoiding foods and drinks that trigger acid reflux
• Staying upright or sitting up for at least three hours after eating
• Elevating the pillow or bed head before sleeping
• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Incorporating exercise into daily life
• Managing stress

Such measures can help control acid reflux.

Symptoms of Acid Reflux

Acid reflux is a chronic digestive disorder that results from stomach contents backing up into the esophagus. Symptoms can vary from person to person, and some common acid reflux symptoms include:

• Burning Sensation or Pain in the Chest: This sensation, often experienced after eating or while lying down, is a common symptom.
• Sour or Bitter Taste in the Mouth: Stomach acid reaching the mouth can create a sour or bitter taste, which may damage tooth enamel and cause bad breath.
• Difficulty Swallowing or Painful Swallowing: This may occur due to inflammation, ulcers, narrowing, or sores in the esophagus. Some may also experience regurgitation or food getting stuck.
• Hoarseness, Throat Burning, Cough, or Hiccups: These symptoms may arise if stomach acid damages the vocal cords or respiratory pathways. Acid reflux can also trigger or worsen respiratory conditions like asthma, chronic bronchitis, or laryngitis.
• Nausea, Vomiting, or Loss of Appetite: These symptoms can occur due to stomach irritation or delayed stomach emptying. Acid reflux may be associated with stomach conditions like gastritis, ulcers, or stomach cancer.

Acid reflux symptoms can negatively affect quality of life. Lifestyle changes may be necessary to reduce or prevent these symptoms.

How is Acid Reflux Diagnosed?

Different diagnostic methods may be used to diagnose acid reflux. Some of these methods include:

• Endoscopy: Endoscopy involves inserting a thin, flexible tube with a camera through the mouth to view the inside of the esophagus. It can detect complications of acid reflux such as inflammation, ulcers, narrowing, sores, or Barrett's esophagus. During endoscopy, a biopsy can also be taken to diagnose conditions like eosinophilic esophagitis.
• 24-Hour pH Monitoring: This test involves placing a sensor in the esophagus to measure acid levels. The sensor, connected to a recording device, measures acid fluctuations while the individual continues their regular activities over 24 hours. This test helps determine the severity and frequency of reflux. It can also assess the effectiveness of reflux medications or investigate symptoms unrelated to reflux.
• pH Impedance Monitoring: Similar to 24-hour pH monitoring, this test also measures the movement of liquid and gas in the esophagus. It can detect both acidic and non-acidic reflux episodes and reveal the relationship between symptoms and reflux events.
• Esophageal Manometry: This test involves placing a pressure sensor in the esophagus to measure muscle movements. It can assess the function of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) and help diagnose esophageal motility disorders such as achalasia, diffuse esophageal spasm, or nutcracker esophagus.

The first step in diagnosing acid reflux generally involves identifying symptoms and factors that may cause or trigger reflux. In some cases, endoscopy or other tests may not be necessary to confirm a diagnosis.

How is Acid Reflux Treated?

The treatment for acid reflux varies depending on the severity, frequency, and duration of symptoms. Generally, two main approaches are used: medication and surgical treatment.

• Medication: Medication therapy includes drugs that suppress stomach acid or enhance esophageal contractions to prevent or reduce reflux. Medications such as antacids, H2 receptor blockers, proton pump inhibitors, and prokinetics may be used to alleviate symptoms. However, these medications may have side effects depending on individual differences.
• Surgical Treatment: Surgical treatment is an option for patients who do not respond to medication or prefer not to use drugs. The goal of surgery is to strengthen the LES to prevent stomach contents from entering the esophagus. Surgical methods include fundoplication, endoscopic plication, endoscopic implantation, and magnetic ring implantation, which can reduce reflux symptoms. However, complications may arise following surgery.

In addition to medication and surgery, lifestyle changes are also important for managing acid reflux. Lifestyle changes include avoiding overeating; limiting spicy, fatty, acidic, and carbonated foods and beverages; staying upright for at least 3 hours after eating; maintaining a healthy weight; and elevating the head while sleeping. Such changes can enhance treatment effectiveness and improve quality of life.

Acid reflux is a condition that, if left untreated, can lead to serious health issues. A combination of medication, surgery, and lifestyle changes should be implemented in reflux treatment. It is essential for treatment to be guided by a doctor to ensure effectiveness. Treatments recommended by a physician can help reduce reflux symptoms in individuals.