✅ Acid Reflux ✅ All you need to know ✅By Dr K Warraich ✅#acidreflux #gerd #gerdanxiety

ＬＩＫＥ | ＣＯＭＭＥＮＴ | ＳＨＡＲＥ | ＳＵＢＳＣＲＩＢＥ ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ✅#acidreflux #gerd #gerdanxiety ✅Acid reflux, also known as gastroesophageal reflux (GER), is a condition in which the liquid content of the stomach regurgitates (backs up or refluxes) into the esophagus. The liquid can inflame and damage the lining (esophagitis) although visible signs of inflammation occur in a minority of patients. The regurgitated liquid usually contains acid and pepsin produced by the stomach (pepsin is an enzyme that begins the digestion of proteins in the stomach). Itis a chronic condition. Once it begins, it usually is life-long. Occasional reflux is common and usually not a cause for concern, but frequent acid reflux can lead to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a chronic condition that may require medical treatment. What are the symptoms of GERD or acid reflux? Heartburn which is a burning sensation in the chest or throat. Regurgitation of food or sour liquid. Difficulty swallowing also called dysphagia. Chronic cough or throat irritation Hoarseness or sore throat. A sensation of a lump in the throat. What are the causes and Risk Factors of GERD (acid reflux)?Overeating or eating large meals. Eating trigger foods, such as fatty, fried, or spicy foods; citrus fruits; chocolate; caffeine; or alcohol. Lying down soon after eating. Obesity or being overweight. Smoking Pregnancy Certain medications (e.g., aspirin, ibuprofen, certain muscle relaxers)Hiatal hernia (a condition where part of the stomach pushes through the diaphragm) Diagnosis of acid reflux? There are a variety of procedures, tests, and evaluations of symptoms (for example, heartburn) to diagnose and evaluate patients with GERD. Diagnosis of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) typically involves an evaluation of symptoms, a physical exam, and sometimes specific diagnostic tests. Here’s an overview of the process: 1. Clinical Evaluation Symptom Assessment: Your doctor will ask about the frequency, severity, and triggers of symptoms like heartburn, regurgitation, chest pain, or difficulty swallowing. History: Information on lifestyle, diet, medications, and risk factors such as smoking, obesity, or pregnancy may also be considered. 2. Response to Treatment A doctor might recommend a trial of medications (like proton pump inhibitors, PPIs) to see if symptoms improve. A positive response often supports a diagnosis of GERD. 3. Diagnostic Tests If symptoms persist or complications are suspected, these tests may be used: Upper Endoscopy (EGD):A thin, flexible tube with a camera is inserted through the mouth to examine the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum. Can detect inflammation, ulcers, or complications like Barrett's esophagus. May involve tissue biopsy if necessary. pH Monitoring: Measures the acidity in the esophagus over 24–48 hours. Can be done via a catheter placed through the nose (traditional method) or with a wireless device (Bravo pH monitoring).Helps confirm abnormal acid exposure. Esophageal Manometry: Assesses the strength and coordination of esophageal muscles. Used to evaluate swallowing problems or rule out conditions like achalasia. Barium Swallow (Upper GI Series):X-rays taken after swallowing a liquid barium solution. Detects structural abnormalities like strictures, hiatal hernia, or severe reflux. Impedance-pH Monitoring: Measures both acid and non-acid reflux episodes. Useful for patients whose symptoms don’t respond to acid-reducing medications.4. Additional Evaluations (if needed): Esophageal Biopsy: To rule out conditions like eosinophilic esophagitis or other causes of inflammation. Gastric Emptying Study: Assesses delayed stomach emptying (gastroparesis), which can mimic GERD symptoms. Management and Prevention of GERD (acid reflux)? Lifestyle Changes: Eat smaller, more frequent meals. Avoid lying down for 2–3 hours after eating. Elevate the head of your bed by 6–8 inches. Maintain a healthy weight. Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption. Dietary Adjustments: Identify and avoid trigger foods. Focus on non-acidic, low-fat foods like vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Drink water instead of carbonated or caffeinated beverages. Over-the-Counter Medications: Antacids (e.g., Tums, Rolaids) to neutralize stomach acid.H2 receptor blockers (e.g., famotidine) to reduce acid production. Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) (e.g., omeprazole) for more persistent symptoms. When to See a Doctor: If symptoms occur more than twice a week. If over-the-counter medications are ineffective. If you experience severe chest pain, unintended weight loss, or difficulty swallowing. Persistent hoarseness, cough, or throat irritation. ✅