An overview to causes and cure of GERD
- Posted by alsapakistan
Before you know the cure of GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) or acid reflux, you must understand what acid reflex is beforehand. So, it is the most irritating condition of the gastrointestinal tract. Generally, it is categorized as heartburn, which is a very sharp burning sensation within the rib cage area. Other symptoms of the disease may include difficulty swallowing, vomiting, regurgitation, wheezing, and chronic coughing.
Cause of acid reflux
This is due to the reflux of stomach acids into the esophagus. The burning sensation may extend into the throat and neck. The reflux is mainly due to weak sphincter Lower Esophageal Sphincter (LES), which may be by birth or due to age. Whatever the case may be, finding a cure for GERD is necessary.
In other cases, acid reflux may be due to foods with greater fat and spices in food. Moreover, certain medicines, smoking, alcohol, tight clothing, strenuous exercise, or even body position changes may cause heartburn. Notably, most acid reflux patients suffer from hiatal hernia as well. It refers to the bulging out of the upper portion of the stomach into the chest cavity.
Cure of GERD
The most common and primary acidity & heartburn cure is antacids and lifestyle change. However, the situation and symptoms may worsen or may not heal at all. Aggravated cases may include scarring and bleeding of the esophagus. For such conditions, laparoscopic acid reflux surgery in Pakistan is the best solution. People may opt for surgery just to avoid the lifelong medication for GERD.
What is acid reflux surgery?
Surgery can be open surgery which means a large cut through the abdomen and longer recovery times. However, laparoscopic acid reflux surgery is the best and lifelong cure of GERD. The most common cure for GERD is Nissen Fundoplication.
The surgery is about wrapping the upper portion of the stomach near the end of the esophagus. Hence, the esophagus is reinforced towards the LES, creating a one-way valve to prevent acid reflux.
Advantages of laparoscopic acid reflux surgery
There are various reasons for the popularity of the laparoscopic cure for GERD. Some of these are as follows.
- Lesser pain after surgery
- Quick recovery
- Shorter post-operative stay at the hospital
- Better cosmetic result in comparison with the large cut
Who is a candidate for Nissen Fundoplication?
Conventionally, physicians recommend the use of antacids and smaller meals. Furthermore, people suffering from heartburn must refrain from spicy foods, tomatoes, caffeine, and mint. However, if there is no relief and the patient suffers from bloating, unrelenting hiccups, burping, and chronic sore, Nissen fundoplication is the solution.