In the midst of our busy lifestyles, occasional stomach upset may have been habitually overlooked. But when that burning sensation spreads from the chest, as if a fire is slowly burning, it may be more than simply "eating too much".
Why does reflux esophagitis give you "heartburn"?
Reflux esophagitis is a condition in which stomach contents flow backward into the esophagus, causing damage and inflammation of the esophageal mucosa. To put it simply, the contents of the stomach and duodenum "flow upstream" and run into the esophagus, causing inflammation of the esophagus. This "countercurrent" can make you feel heartburn, acid reflux, throat irritation, and even affect your sleep and diet.
Symptoms of reflux esophagitis
The symptoms of reflux esophagitis are varied, but here are the most common:
1. Heartburn: A burning sensation behind the sternum, usually worse after a meal or when lying down.
2. Acid reflux: Acidic liquids or foods reflux into the mouth, often accompanied by a sour taste.
3. Difficulty swallowing: Feeling that food is stuck in the throat or chest.
4. Chest pain: Sometimes chest pain that resembles heart disease.
5. Chronic cough: especially at night or in the morning.
6. Hoarseness: Stomach acid refluxes into the throat, causing voice changes.
Causes of reflux esophagitis
Reflux esophagitis can occur for a variety of reasons, including the following:
Lower esophageal sphincter insufficiency: insufficient pressure in the sphincter to effectively prevent acid reflux.
1. Obesity: Increased pressure in the abdomen, prompting acid reflux.
2. Eating habits: The intake of high-fat, high-sugar, spicy foods and caffeine can increase gastric acid secretion.
3. Smoking and alcohol use: Tobacco and alcohol relax the sphincter muscles and increase the risk of reflux.
4. Pregnancy: Pressure on the stomach from hormonal changes during pregnancy and an enlarged uterus can also lead to reflux.
5. Certain medications, such as anti-inflammatory drugs, calcium channel blockers, etc., can also affect sphincter function.
Understanding these causes is essential for the prevention and treatment of reflux esophagitis, which can be effectively controlled and quality of life improved through lifestyle improvements, rational use of medications, and surgery if necessary.
Diagnosis of reflux esophagitis
Diagnosis of reflux esophagitis requires a combination of history, symptoms, and a number of ancillary tests:
1. Gastroscopy: Directly observe the esophageal and gastric mucosa through gastroscopy to determine whether there is inflammation, ulcer or other lesions.
2. 24-hour esophageal pH monitoring: Assess the frequency and degree of acid reflux by monitoring changes in the acidic environment within the esophagus.
3. Esophageal manometry: Tests the motor function of the esophagus and the pressure of the sphincter.
4. Barium swallow fluoroscopy: X-ray and barium to observe the morphology and function of the esophagus and stomach.
How is reflux esophagitis treated?
Treatment of reflux esophagitis mainly includes lifestyle changes, medications, and surgery:
1. Lifestyle changes
Dietary modifications: Avoid spicy, greasy, high-sugar foods, eat small, frequent meals, and don't lie down immediately.
Weight loss: Eat a healthy diet and exercise to lose weight and reduce abdominal pressure.
Quit smoking and limit alcohol: Reduce the irritation of tobacco and alcohol to the esophagus and stomach.
Head of bed elevation: Raise the head of the bed while sleeping to reduce nocturnal regurgitation.
2. Medication
Antacids: such as aluminum, magnesium carbonate, aluminum hydroxide, etc., to relieve symptoms.
H2 receptor antagonists: such as ranitidine, famotidine, etc., to reduce gastric acid secretion.
Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs): such as omeprazole, lansoprazole, etc., which can strongly inhibit gastric acid secretion.
Prokinetic drugs: such as domperidone, which enhance gastrointestinal peristalsis and promote gastric emptying.
3. Surgical treatment
Anti-reflux surgery: such as fundoplication, which is used to surgically enhance sphincter function and reduce acid reflux, and is suitable for patients who do not respond to medical treatment or have serious complications.
How can I prevent reflux esophagitis?
1. Arrange your diet wisely:
Eat regularly and quantitatively, avoid oversaturated supper, and complete dinner at least 3 hours before bedtime to reduce pressure in the stomach before bedtime.
Reduce your intake of high-fat, spicy, fried foods, which can delay gastric emptying and reduce pressure on the lower esophageal sphincter.
Avoid foods such as chocolate, peppermint, and other foods that may relax the lower esophageal sphincter.
Reduce acidic foods and beverages such as citrus fruits, tomatoes, vinegar, etc., so as not to irritate the esophageal mucosa.
2. Control your weight:
Being overweight or obese can increase pressure in the abdomen and promote acid reflux. Controlling your weight through a healthy diet and regular exercise can help reduce reflux.
3. Improve Sleep Posture:
Elevate the head of the bed by 15-20 cm to use gravity to help prevent regurgitation at night, but avoid simply raising the pillow to avoid increasing pressure on your abdomen.
4. Quit smoking and limit alcohol:
The nicotine in tobacco lowers pressure on the esophageal sphincter, while alcohol stimulates stomach acid secretion, both of which can worsen reflux symptoms.
5. Reduces Abdominal Pressure:
Avoid tight clothing and reduce movements such as bending over and squatting, which may increase pressure in the abdomen and promote reflux of stomach contents.
6. Use medication with caution:
Avoid medications that may reduce pressure on the esophageal sphincter, such as theophylline, certain sedatives, antidepressants, etc., and consult your doctor if necessary.
7. Maintain a healthy lifestyle:
Reduce stress and avoid mood swings, as stress and nervousness can also trigger an increase in stomach acid production.
Exercise in moderation to improve digestion, but avoid strenuous exercise immediately after meals.
8. Dietary Adjustments:
Try small, frequent meals and avoid eating large meals at once.
Increasing your intake of dietary fiber can help improve digestion, but avoid eating too many foods that can cause gas.
It can significantly reduce the risk of reflux esophagitis and improve quality of life. If you already have reflux symptoms, it's equally important to see a doctor and treat them as prescribed.
Reflux esophagitis is a common but easily overlooked digestive disorder. With a healthy lifestyle, timely diagnosis and effective treatment, symptoms can be significantly reduced and quality of life can be improved. If you have similar symptoms, you should consult your doctor as soon as possible for relevant tests and treatment.