What are the Causes of Reflux Disease?
One of the most important causes of reflux disease is gastric hernia (Hiatal Hernia) . The diaphragm is the structure that divides the thoracic and abdominal cavities in every human being. The lower end of the esophagus passes through the gap in the diaphragm and passes into the abdominal cavity, where it joins the stomach. If this gap is wider than normal, a part of the stomach may rise above the diaphragm from this gap. What is a stomach hernia ? Normally, the diaphragm helps prevent stomach acid from escaping back into the esophagus. However, if the structure here is disrupted and a hernia occurs, the acid in the stomach easily escapes back into the esophagus. This, in turn, can lead to symptoms of acid reflux .
We mentioned earlier that there is a natural valve made up of muscles at the junction of the esophagus and stomach, and this is called the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) . Even if there is no gastric hernia, valve failure may occur due to situations where the muscles in this region do not work properly (LES failure). In this case, acid reflux occurs from the stomach to the esophagus.
Consumption of certain foods and beverages are causes of reflux . These;
- Being overweight and obese
- Stress
- eat something at night
- Excessive consumption of coffee, chocolate, tea and carbonated drinks
- fatty foods
- Smoking and alcohol use
- Pregnancy
Symptoms of Reflux
Reflux disease has 2 symptoms as typical and atypical reflux .
- Typical: The most common symptoms in reflux are: Burning in the rib cage (Heartburn) and Regurgitation (bitter water coming out).
- Atypical: Symptoms such as hoarseness, pharyngitis, laryngitis, sinusitis, tooth decay, bad breath, and COPD attacks.
In some people, symptoms may also be felt in the form of burning in the neck, back and shoulder area. In some patients, it can also be felt in the form of heart pain.
The burning sensation in the esophagus often starts suddenly and can last for hours. This burning sensation can cause the person to wake up from sleep. Mouth of stomach contents, vomiting, hiccups are among the other reflux symptoms.
What are the Differences Between Reflux and Gastritis?
Reflux and gastritis symptoms are similar. For this reason, most of the patients confuse the two and apply the wrong treatment. Therefore, a doctor should be consulted. Symptoms of gastritis usually occur when hungry and cause severe pain.
Gastritis is caused by inflammation of the lining of the stomach. It is caused by the production of too much stomach acid. Excess stomach acid comes into contact with the gastric mucosa and damages the cells.
Reflux is related to the involuntary escaping of stomach acid. Gastritis is inflammation of the stomach and reflux is the involuntary loosening of the valve under the esophagus.
