Gastric reflux
Gastric Reflux
Gastric reflux, also known as GERD or Acid Reflux, is a common condition where stomach acid flows back into the Esophagus. Pronounced as gas-trik ree-fluks, the term is derived from the Greek word 'gaster' meaning stomach, and the Latin word 'refluxus' meaning flowing back.
Symptoms
The most common symptom of gastric reflux is Heartburn, a burning sensation in the chest. Other symptoms may include regurgitation of food or sour liquid, difficulty swallowing, coughing, wheezing, and chest pain, especially at night.
Causes
Gastric reflux occurs when the LES, a ring of muscle fibers that closes off the stomach from the esophagus, does not close all the way or opens too often. This allows the stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus.
Risk Factors
Risk factors for gastric reflux include obesity, pregnancy, smoking, certain medications, and certain foods and drinks, such as alcohol, caffeine, chocolate, fatty and fried foods, garlic and onions, mint flavorings, spicy foods, and tomato-based foods.
Treatment
Treatment for gastric reflux may include lifestyle changes, over-the-counter medications, prescription medications, or surgery in severe cases. Lifestyle changes may include losing weight, quitting smoking, avoiding certain foods and drinks, eating smaller meals, not lying down for at least three hours after eating, and elevating the head of the bed.
Related Terms
- Esophagitis: Inflammation of the esophagus.
- Barrett's Esophagus: A serious complication of GERD.
- Hiatal Hernia: A condition in which the upper part of the stomach bulges through the large muscle separating the abdomen and chest.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Gastric reflux
- Wikipedia's article - Gastric reflux
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