Acid reflux

A condition where stomach acid frequently flows back into the esophagus

Acid Reflux
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Synonyms	N/A
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Heartburn, regurgitation, chest pain
Complications	Esophagitis, Barrett's esophagus, Esophageal cancer
Onset	Any age
Duration	Long term
Types	N/A
Causes	Lower esophageal sphincter dysfunction
Risks	Obesity, pregnancy, smoking, certain foods
Diagnosis	Endoscopy, pH monitoring
Differential diagnosis	N/A
Prevention	N/A
Treatment	Lifestyle changes, medications, surgery
Medication	Antacids, H2 receptor antagonists, Proton pump inhibitors
Prognosis	N/A
Frequency	Common
Deaths	N/A

Acid reflux, also known as gastroesophageal reflux, is a condition in which acidic gastric fluid flows backward into the esophagus, causing symptoms such as heartburn. It is a common condition that can affect individuals of all ages.

Pathophysiology

Acid reflux occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), a ring of muscle at the bottom of the esophagus, fails to close properly. This allows stomach acid to escape into the esophagus, leading to irritation and inflammation. The LES may become weakened due to factors such as obesity, pregnancy, smoking, and certain dietary habits.

Symptoms

The primary symptom of acid reflux is heartburn, a burning sensation in the chest that often occurs after eating. Other symptoms may include:

• Regurgitation of food or sour liquid
• Difficulty swallowing
• Chest pain
• Chronic cough
• Laryngitis
• Disrupted sleep

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of acid reflux is typically based on the patient's symptoms and medical history. In some cases, further testing may be required, such as:

• Endoscopy: A procedure that uses a flexible tube with a camera to view the esophagus and stomach.
• pH monitoring: A test that measures the acidity in the esophagus over a 24-hour period.
• Esophageal manometry: A test that measures the rhythmic muscle contractions in the esophagus.

Treatment

Treatment for acid reflux may involve lifestyle changes, medications, or surgery, depending on the severity of the condition.

Lifestyle Changes

• Avoiding foods and drinks that trigger reflux, such as fatty foods, coffee, and alcohol.
• Eating smaller meals and not lying down immediately after eating.
• Elevating the head of the bed.
• Losing weight if overweight.
• Quitting smoking.

Medications

• Antacids: Over-the-counter medications that neutralize stomach acid.
• H2 receptor antagonists: Medications that reduce acid production.
• Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs): Medications that block acid production and heal the esophagus.

Surgery

In severe cases, surgical options such as fundoplication may be considered. This procedure involves wrapping the top of the stomach around the lower esophagus to strengthen the LES.

Complications

If left untreated, acid reflux can lead to more serious conditions, including:

• Esophagitis: Inflammation of the esophagus.
• Barrett's esophagus: A condition where the lining of the esophagus changes, increasing the risk of esophageal cancer.
• Esophageal stricture: Narrowing of the esophagus due to scar tissue.

Also see

• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
• Barrett's esophagus
• Esophagitis
• Hiatal hernia