Department of Otorhinolaryngology (ent)
Welcome To Gangasheel Hospital
What is Gastric Reflux ?
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) occurs when stomach acid repeatedly flows back up the tube that connects the mouth to the stomach (esophagus). This reflux (acid reflux) can irritate the lining of the esophagus.
Many people experience acid reflux from time to time. However, repeated occurrences of acid reflux over time can lead to reflux esophagitis.
Most people can manage the symptoms of GERD with lifestyle changes and medications. In rare cases, surgery may be needed to relieve symptoms.
- Burning sensation in the chest (heartburn), usually after eating, may be worse at night or while lying down.
- Chest pain
- Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
- Throat lump
- GERD is caused by frequent regurgitation of acid or non-acid contents from the stomach.
- When swallowed, the circular band of muscle at the bottom of the esophagus (lower esophageal sphincter) relaxes, allowing food and liquids to flow into the stomach. The sphincters then close again.
- If the sphincters do not relax or weaken, stomach acid can flow back up into the esophagus.
- This constant acid reflux irritates the lining of the esophagus, often causing inflammation.
Here are 10 tips to prevent GERD symptoms.
- Achieve and maintain a healthy weight.
- Frequent small meals rather than large meals several times a day.
- Reduce fat by reducing amounts of butter, oil, salad dressings, sauces, fatty meats, sour cream, cheese, and whole dairy products such as whole milk.
- Sit up straight when you eat and then stay upright (sitting or standing) for 45-60 minutes.
- Avoid eating before bed. Wait at least 3 hours after eating before going to bed.
- Avoid wearing clothes that are too tight around your stomach. They can press on your stomach and push acid up into your esophagus.
- When you sleep, use a wooden block under your bed support to raise the head of your bed 6 to 8 inches. Extra pillows don't work.
- I quit smoking.
- The doctor will prescribe medicine to reduce stomach acid. Always take as directed.
- Cut out any food that could be a trigger.
Many over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription drugs relieve GERD. Most OTC medicines are also available in prescription strength. If you don't get relief from OTC formulas, your provider will prescribe these stronger medications.
- Most commonly used GERD medications: for rapid relief include Tums®, Rolaids®, Mylanta®, Riopan®, and Maalox®.
- H-2 receptor blockers (which reduce acid production) include Tagamet®, Pepcid AC®, Axid AR®, and Zantac®.
- Proton pump inhibitors (potent acid blockers that also help heal damaged esophageal tissue) include Prevacid®, Prilosec®, Zegerid®, Nexium®, Protonix®, AcipHex®, and Dexilant®.
- Baclofen is a prescription drug used to decrease relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter, allowing acid reflux.
Yes, Gastric Reflux treatment is available in Bareilly at Gangasheel Hospital by the team of expert ENT surgeon's in the city.