Acid Reflux Symptoms, Causes and Risk Factors
-
Symptoms
-
Heartburn, nausea and regurgitation are the most common symptoms of acid reflux. Consistent acid reflux can lead to complications, such as ulcers, strictures, Barrett's esophagus and coughing.
Causes
-
There are a number of things that can cause or contribute to acid reflux. These include hiatal hernias, lower esophageal sphincter, esophageal contractions and the emptying of the stomach.
Risk Factors
-
Some people are at a higher risk of having acid reflux. If you are pregnant, obese, have respiratory disease, or if you consistently eat foods that have a lot of acid, then you have a higher risk.
Prevention/Solution
-
Cutting down on spicy foods and foods with a lot of acid can help prevent acid reflux. Sleeping at an elevated angle can also help prevent occurrences of acid reflux.
Treatment
-
Changing your eating habits, losing weight and using antacids can help treat acid reflux. More serious cases may need medications, proton pump inhibitors, histamine antagonists or surgery to treat it.
-