Acid reflux disease (GERD) is a medical condition wherein the esophagus becomes inflamed or irritated because of the backing up of acids from the stomach. Acid reflux disease treatment can be done in several methods.
Most often, physicians are suggesting rubric modifications of lifestyles when they recommend non-pharmaceutical GERD treatments for their patients. However, most dietary involvements are anecdotal. Only the head bed’s elevation and weight loss were supported by some evidences.
Diet
Acid reflux disease treatment can be done through avoiding lifestyles and foods which are promoting such condition. Too much amount of Vitamin C supplement, alcohol, and coffee can stimulate secretion of gastric acid. Never take these substances before bedtime because it can trigger evening reflux. Quit smoking and eating high fatty foods to maintain the capability of the lower esophageal sphincter and prevent delayed stomach emptying. It is also beneficial to eat smaller meals instead of large meals. Other types of food to be avoided include peppermint, chocolate, spicy foods, cruciferous vegetables (cabbage, onions, Brussels sprouts, spinach, broccoli, and cauliflower), acidic foods (tomatoes and oranges, good if eaten fresh), and milk, as well as milk related products containing fat and calcium.
Positional Therapy
This acid reflux disease treatment focuses on the implementation of head bed positioning. Implementing a pharmacologic therapy combined with avoiding restricted foods before bedtime plus proper head bed elevation can give a patient a feeling of complete relief. In incomplete relief cases, further conservative measures are adopted to optimize response to the treatment.
Head bed elevation is accomplished through using blocks or other items such as wooden or plastic bed risers that support bed legs or posts, a bed wedged-pillow, or an inflatable lifter mattress which can fit in between the box spring and the mattress. Keep in mind that the elevation’s height is critical. The required minimum height is 15-20 centimeters (6-8 inches) to hinder gastric fluids backflow effectively. Some patients are even claiming that utilizing more than 6-8 inches blocks is more effective.
Drug Treatment
Acid reflux disease treatment through the use of various drugs is effective. Some medication forms are most often recommended in many Western countries. These drugs can be utilized in combination with other medications.
- Proton pump inhibitors. Reduce secretion of gastric acids most effectively by stopping the acid production source. - Antacids. Increase the level of pH and lessen gastric acidity. Effective if taken before meals and after the symptoms start.
- Alginic acid or Gaviscon. Coats the mucosa, decrease reflux, and increase the levels of pH. The meta-analysis of controlled randomized trials shows that Alginic acid is one of the most efficient non-prescription treatments.
- H2 receptor gastric blockers (famotidine or ranitidine). Reduce secretion of gastric acid. These medications are antihistamines which also relieve complaints to almost 50 percent of patients having GERD.
- Prokinetics. Speed up emptying the stomach and support the LES.
- Sucralfate. Helps in healing and preventing esophageal damages. Taking this drug for several times a day with two hours interval from medication and meals is also effective.
Surgical Treatment
Acid reflux disease treatment can be also done through a surgery. This treatment is applicable if all the above mentioned forms of medications failed. The Nissen fundoplication is performed laparoscopically by wrapping the stomach’s upper part on the LES for strengthening the sphincter, preventing acid reflux, and repairing hiatal hernia.
Always remember, before deciding on an acid reflux disease treatment, always consult a doctor.
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