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Acid reflux or GERD is a major health issue. It can affect both women and mens health. In this condition, there is reflux of acidic contents from the stomach into the esophagus. The lower esophageal sphincter (LES), which remains tightly closed, prevents reflux 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.

So can you 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.

However, the effeciency of the LES can be affected by several factors. Consider eliminating these factors that may impact on acid reflux before seeing your doctor or taking over the counter acid suppressants. Sometimes all you need is a change of lifestyle.

A contributory cause of acid reflux is obesity. This is especially so in the apple type distribution of weight. The extra weight increases bulk acomplia discount in the upper abdomen and makes it difficult for the esophagus to discharge food effectively into the stomach. In addition hiatus hernia is more common in obese individuals. A hiatus hernia can weaken the LES. An important aspect of acid reflux treatment is losing weight.

Acid reflux can be caused by wearing tight fitting clothes especially if it is two sizes too small. The pressure exerted on the stomach may trigger back flow into the esophagus. Wear loose clothes and your reflux symptoms may go away.

Large volume of food in the stomach will put pressure on the LES and can trigger acid reflux. It has happened to us all at some time or other. The large volume also increases gastric clearance time allowing more opportunity for reflux. Eating smaller portions more frequently will counter this problem.

Certain foods can affect acid reflux. Cow’s milk protein intolerance can cause esophagitis. It is called Allergic Eosinophilic Esophagitis. This is controlled by removing cow’s milk protein from the diet. Other foods such as fats, coffee, alcohol, tea and some spices can affect the lower esophageal sphincter.

The lower esophageal sphincter can be affected by some drugs and cause acid reflux. These drugs include broncho-dilators such as theophylline, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID), tri-cyclic antidepressants ie amitryptilline and drugs for Parkinson’s disease.

GERD symptoms are affected by female hormones. 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 cialis without prescription slowed buy Viagra Professional online down by sedatives and tranquillisers and can affect clearance of food from the esophagus.

Opt for liquid medication if you have GERD and need treatment. Certain drugs ie tetracycline are corrosive to the lining of the esophagus. Tablets and capsules (gelcaps) can lodge in the esophagus. Make it a habit to drink a glass of water after medication to wash it down. Avoid taking medication while lying down. It is best for GERD patients to take medication sitting up or standing and avoid lying down immediately after.

Smoking relaxes the LES and nicotine is corrosive to esophageal lining. Stop smoking and your acid reflux might improve.

Acid Reflux risk is increased by certain exercises. This is the case in competitive weightlifting and cycling. GERD symptoms can develop in joggers.

If you have acid reflux symptoms, look at all the potential risk factors and eliminate them. If by doing so, your symptoms disappear, 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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