Causes and treatment of reflux esophagitis

Causes of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease

 

Gastroesophageal reflux disease is a condition in which contents from the stomach flow back into the esophagus, causing irritation or damage to the esophageal mucosa.

The causes of reflux esophagitis are varied. The main causes of reflux esophagitis are as follows.

 

Eating habits

 

Consuming greasy foods, chocolate, coffee, alcohol, carbonated drinks, or spicy foods can increase stomach acid secretion and cause reflux esophagitis.

Additionally, skipping meals or suddenly binge eating can also affect the development of reflux esophagitis.

 

Smoking / Drinking

 

Frequent smoking and alcohol consumption can increase the risk of developing gastroesophageal reflux disease. Smokers are 1.6 times more likely to develop reflux esophagitis compared to non-smokers, and drinkers are 1.3 times more likely than non-drinkers.

 

Lifestyle habits

 

Lying down or going to sleep immediately after a meal can cause gastroesophageal reflux disease.

 

<Symptoms of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease>

 

The following are the main symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease.

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• Heartburn: You may feel a burning sensation as if your throat is being scorched.
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• Reflux: It refers to the backflow of bile, bitter water, or digested food into the mouth.
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• Foreign body sensation: You may feel as if there is something lodged in your throat.
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• Vomiting: Vomiting may occur due to heartburn.
• Other symptoms: You may experience indigestion and a feeling of bloating.
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Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease Treatment

 

Gastroesophageal reflux disease can be treated through lifestyle modifications and medication.

 

Lifestyle habit improvement

 

Improve eating habits: Avoid greasy foods, chocolates, caffeine, alcohol, spicy foods, and carbonated drinks. Eat small portions frequently and do not lie down immediately after meals.

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• Weight loss: Reducing weight can be helpful in cases of obesity.
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• No smoking: Quit smoking.
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• Sleeping position: Elevate your head while sleeping and lie on your left side to help prevent acid reflux.
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Medication therapy

 

If symptoms of reflux esophagitis are severe, you may try taking acid suppressants that inhibit stomach acid secretion.