Acid reflux is probably the most common result of indigestion. The esophagus doesn't have adequate defense against the harmful effects of the acidic juices which in turn cause inflammation and heartburn. Such attacks if brief, which they usually are, do not have adverse effects but if they are persistent then the lining of esophagus may be permanently damaged. It could also lead to bleeding in the digestive tract
Causes: The esophagus is a tube which allows food to pass from the mouth through the throat to the stomach. Once food enters the stomach it is not allowed to go back. This is because of a double action valve mechanism which provides an effective one way valve with a sphincter muscle at the lower end of the esophagus and the effect of the diaphragm on the esophagus as it enters it through a narrow opening called as hiatus.
Obesity, pregnancy, poor sphincter muscle tone or weakness in the hiatus could result in valve leak thus causing a acid reflux.
Mild attacks of acid reflux are felt after eating spicy or high fat foods, drinking carbonated drinks, alcohol or coffee. Smoking can also aggravate such problems.
In babies acidic reflux or GER occurs because the muscles of the entrance of the stomach are not fully developed. It is more common in preterm babies wherein they regularly regurgitate large amount of milk or food.
Symptoms: Major symptoms of acid reflux like belching, heartburn and acidic taste in the mouth are usually seen after a heavy meal. Children sometimes inhale milk into their lungs which may develop into a lung infection like pneumonia. But matters could be serious if there is a persistent cough or blood in the vomit or feces. Acid reflux that is persistent could lead to stricture or narrowing of the esophagus which can make swallowing difficult and lead to weight loss. Chronic acid reflux or GER could also lead to cancer of the esophagus.
Solution: Mild acid reflux is usually relieved by self help measures like taking antacids to help neutralize stomach acids. It is also advisable to avoid spicy, acidic, tomato based and high fat foods, stop smoking, and avoid alcohol, colas and coffee. Some changes in lifestyle habits like eating smaller amount of food, avoiding late night dinners, avoiding stress and not lying down immediately after a meal can help keeping acid reflux at bay. If self help measures do not relieve the symptoms one may be prescribed ulcer healing drugs and/or antispasmodic drugs and motility stimulants to increase the rate at which the stomach is emptied. This would make acid reflux less likely to occur. A specialized X-ray also known as Barium swallow can show any abnormalities in the esophagus. In worst cases, endoscopic surgery may be needed to tighten the lower esophagus sphincter muscle and return the stomach to its normal position.
