The backflow of stomach acid into your digestive tract is not a feeling you want to experience. Unfortunately, about 15 million people worldwide have to endure the condition every day. Besides the annoying heartburns, there is more to it, degrading your quality of life.
If you are among the individuals suffering from acid reflux in San Antonio, consider visiting the Digestive & Liver Disease Center of San Antonio PLLC for top standard care and treatment. Do not endure the uncomfortable symptoms any longer; contact the practice for your consultation.
Table of Contents
What is acid reflux?
Acid reflux occurs when the stomach acid regularly flows back into your esophagus.
The esophagus and the stomach flow connect through a ring of muscles to form a valve. The valve usually closes after food reaches the stomach, preventing the stomach acid from flowing back.
However, when the valve does not close properly, the acid in the stomach can move to your esophagus, inflaming its lining—the irritation results in heartburn, among other uncomfortable symptoms.
What causes acid reflux?
The common cause of acid reflux is a stomach condition known as hiatal hernia. The condition happens when the stomach’s upper part moves above the diaphragm.
Usually, the diaphragm separates the stomach and the chest and helps keep the acid in the stomach. However, when you have a hiatal hernia, acid can proceed to the esophagus causing acid reflux.
The following can increase your chance of getting acid reflux disease.
· Obesity or being overweight
· Eating large meals
· Smoking
· Lying down right after a meal
· Eating a heavy meal and bending backward or over your waist
· Eating certain foods, such as tomato, citrus, chocolate, garlic, onions, mint, spicy and fatty foods
· Take snacks when about to go to bed
· Pregnancy
· Drinking certain beverages like coffee, alcohol, or carbonated drinks
What are the symptoms of acid reflux?
The following are the common symptoms of acid reflux;
· Heartburn usually occurs after eating
· Bloating
· Regurgitation of food
· Hiccups
· A sensation of food stuck in your throat
· Nausea
· Burping
· Chronic cough
· Bloody vomit or stool
Is acid reflux the same thing as gastroesophageal reflux disease?
Acid reflux happens when the stomach acid protrudes into your esophagus. At the same time, gastroesophageal occurs when you experience acid reflux regularly, like two or more times a week.
What are the treatments for acid reflux?
Your acid reflux treatment option depends on the cause. During your consultation, your provider examines your symptoms, reviews your medical history, and may recommend other tests for a comprehensive diagnosis.
After identifying the cause of your acid reflux, Dr. Narvaez works with you to get the solution for your problem.
Some of the treatments available at Digestive & Liver Disease Center of San Antonio PLLC include,
· Lifestyle changes
· Over-the-counter medications
· Surgery, including procedures such as fundoplication
Contact an acid reflux specialist today.
Heartburn and discomfort felt after eating shouldn’t be part of your life. If acid reflux disrupts your quality of living, let Dr. Narvaez at Digestive & Liver Disease Center of San Antonio PLLC help you. Consider contacting him for a consultation.
