What is Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease?
Gastroesophageal reflux disease is an extremely common disorder of the digestive system. It occurs when gastric contents, which are acidic, reflux into the esophagus.
Symptoms:
The classic signs of reflux are chest burning (heartburn) and acid reflux. The burning sensation in the esophagus can be very uncomfortable and often painful. If the gastric fluid reaches the mouth, it may cause hoarseness and lead to a dry cough.
Factors that promote the development of reflux:
- Increased abdominal pressure: For example, in obesity or advanced pregnancy
- Presence of a Hiatal Hernia: The diaphragm is a muscle that separates the thoracic from the abdominal cavity. The contents of the esophagus enter the stomach through the relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter. When a hiatal hernia occurs, the stomach slightly slides upwards into the thoracic cavity. The diaphragm can no longer support the closure of the muscles at the entrance to the stomach, resulting in reflux of gastric fluid and/or undigested food into the esophagus.
- Other factors: Certain medications, foods high in fat, as well as chocolate, caffeine, alcohol, and smoking can promote or worsen reflux.
What are the common complications of gastroesophageal reflux disease?
In the long term, reflux can cause certain complications,
such as:
- Esophageal ulcers due to inflammation
- Esophageal stricture
- Bleeding
- Dental damage
- Barrett’s Esophagus: In some cases, inflammation of the esophagus can lead to changes in the esophageal cells, making them resemble intestinal cells, which increases the risk of esophageal cancer.
- Respiratory conditions: Dry cough, asthma attacks, or laryngitis.
Management:
- Conservative treatment: This includes avoiding large meals, refraining from alcohol and caffeine consumption, avoiding smoking, and weight loss for obese individuals. It is also helpful to avoid lying down after meals.
- Pharmacological treatment: If symptoms persist, pharmacological treatment should be followed. For mild symptoms, antacids can help, but they only work for a short time. For more severe symptoms, proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are the most effective medications.
- Surgical treatment: After gastroenterological and surgical evaluation.
