Acid reflux or GERD is a major health issue. It can affect both women and mens health. It is regurgitation of stomach content high in acid into the esophagus. Reflux is prevented by the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) which remains tightly closed and opens when peristaltic waves herald the imminent arrival of swallowed food. When the lower esophageal sphincter becomes incompetent acid reflux will result. This is called GERD or gastro-esophageal reflux disease.

Is it possible to cure your acid reflux? If there is true lower esophageal incompetence, then there is no cure. You will need maintenance treatment with acid suppressants like omeprazole, or surgical treatment like fundoplication will relieve your symptoms if very severe or you develop secondary problems.

There are, however, various factors that can affect the efficiency of the LES and acid reflux. Consider eliminating these factors that may impact on GERD before seeing your doctor or taking over the counter acid suppressants. A lifestyle change is sometimes all you need.

Obesity can cause or contribute to acid reflux. This is especially so in the apple type distribution of weight. The increased bulk in the abdomen makes it difficult for the esophagus to discharge food effectively into the stomach. In addition hiatus hernia is more common in obese individuals. The LES can be weakened by a hiatus hernia. Losing weight is an important aspect of GERD treatment.

Acid reflux can be caused by wearing tight fitting clothes especially if it is two sizes too small. The increased pressure on the stomach may force acid back up into the gullet. Your symptoms will improve if you wear loose clothes.

A large meal entering the stomach will put pressure on the LES and can cause acid reflux. We all experience this at some time or other. The large volume also increases gastric clearance time allowing more opportunity for reflux. To counter this problem, eat smaller portions.

Acid Reflux can be affected by certain foods. Allergic Eosinophilic Esophagitis is an inflammation caused by cow’s milk intolerance. Removing cow’s milk protein from your diet will control this. Other foods such as fats, coffee, alcohol, tea and some spices can affect the lower esophageal sphincter.

Some drugs can affect the LES and cause acid reflux. Broncho-dilators such as theophylline, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID), tri-cyclic antidepressants ie amitryptilline and drugs for Parkinson’s disease are in this list.

Female hormones can affect acid reflux. In a Scandinavian Study, women on hormones had showed a greater risk. These drugs include the hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and the contraceptive pill. The peristaltic waves in the esophagus can be slowed down by sedatives and tranquillisers and can affect proper discharge of food from the esophagus.

If you have GERD and you are on medication, opt for liquid medication. Certain drugs ie tetracycline are corrosive to the esophageal lining. Tablets and capsules (gelcaps) can get stuck in the esophagus. Always drink a glass of water after medication to wash it down. Avoid taking medication while lying down. GERD patients should always take medication sitting up or standing and avoid lying down immediately after.

Smoking relaxes the LES and nicotine is corrosive to esophageal lining. GERD symptoms improve when you give up smoking.

Certain exercises have been shown to increase the risk of acid reflux. This is the case in competitive weightlifting and cycling. Joggers can develop GERD symptoms.

If by eliminating all the risk factors, your symptoms disappear, then you have actually cured your acid reflux. However, if the symptoms persist, the next step is a visit to your doctor.

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