Acid reflux, is a common digestive condition whereby the stomach contents leak into your oesophagus (a tube-like structure measuring around 1 inch wide and 10 inches long, extending from your mouth to your stomach).
The lower oesophageal sphincter (LES) is a circular ring of muscles located at the lower end of the oesophagus and connects to the stomach. LES relaxes and opens to allow food to enter the stomach once you swallow, and it then mixes with stomach acid to aid digestion. The LES then closes to prevent reflux of food and stomach acid into the oesophagus.
Occasional reflux is common and often occurs after a heavy meal. Most episodes are brief and do not result in complications or bothersome symptoms. However, you would experience bothersome symptoms or damage to the oesophagus if you have acid reflux.
You may have heard of GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease), which is defined as a chronic digestive condition and more severe form of acid reflux with persistent symptoms that significantly affect quality of life.
Certain factors can increase an individual’s risk of developing acid reflux:
Lying down immediately or too soon after eating can lead to acid flowing back into the oesophagus, causing heartburn and discomfort.
Common acid reflux symptoms include:
Diagnosis is based on your reported symptoms, physical examination and investigations. Your doctor may perform an upper gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy. A thin, flexible tube with a camera (endoscope) is used to examine the oesophagus and stomach lining. Biopsy samples may be taken to look for damage or signs of infection.
A test called prolonged oesophageal pH study can also be done to measure the severity of acid reflux. This test requires inserting a small tube with a sensor through the nose into the oesophagus or placing a wireless sensor during an upper endoscopy. This sensor will stay in place for 24 hours.
For mild acid reflux symptoms, common treatment option is taking antacids like Gaviscon for short-term relief as they neutralise stomach acid. Histamine receptor antagonists like cimetidine and famotidine decrease acid production in the stomach are more efficient than antacids and their effects stay longer.
For moderate to severe symptoms, proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are most effective at reducing stomach acid. Some PPIs are accessible over-the-counter, whereas prescriptions may be necessary for higher doses. Examples of PPIs are omeprazole, pantoprazole.
The majority of individuals with acid reflux will not develop serious complications, particularly if they are on treatment. However, those with severe acid reflux may occasionally experience potentially serious complications.
Making dietary and lifestyle adjustments can significantly reduce the frequency and severity of acid reflux episodes.
If you have any questions or concerns about acid reflux, get in touch with us to book an appointment today for a consultation, or visit our team of Gastroenterologists at your nearest Pantai Hospital.
Pantai Hospitals have been accredited by the Malaysian Society for Quality in Health (MSQH) for its commitment to patient safety and service quality.