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What Causes Reflux and How Is It Treated?

Reflux, which causes discomfort after meals and causes many problems such as insomnia at night, is a common health problem seen in 20% of the population. Before reflux damages the esophagus, factors that cause reflux must be prevented and reflux must be treated.

The backflow of stomach acid into the esophagus is called reflux. The most typical symptom of reflux, which is seen especially after meals, is a burning sensation behind the rib cage, spreading from the stomach to the throat. Reflux, which causes food and bitter water to come into the mouth in addition to burning, is a common health problem in society. The incidence rate is similar in men and women.

What Causes Reflux?

Exposure of the esophagus to excessive amounts of stomach acid for a long time causes damage to the esophagus and causes reflux. The reason why the stomach acini escapes into the esophagus is the frequent relaxation of the valve-like structure (esophageal sphincter), which is located at the lower end of the esophagus and consists of muscle.

Lifestyle and consumption of certain foods and beverages can also be considered among the main factors that cause reflux. These;

  • Stress,
  • Overweight,
  • Having a snack right before going to bed
  • Coffee,
  • Chocolate,
  • Angle,
  • Spice,
  • carbonated drinks,
  • Onion and garlic,
  • Mint,
  • fatty foods,
  • It can be listed as smoking and alcohol consumption.

How to Treat Reflux?

The most effective method of treating reflux is to control reflux with changes in diet and lifestyle. The lifestyle that causes reflux should be improved, weight should be lost, and foods and drinks that cause reflux should not be consumed.

The patient should regulate his/her lifestyle and avoid the following behaviors:

  • Eating heavy and large meals
  • Going to bed immediately after meals
  • Caffeine, alcohol and cigarettes
  • Spicy or hot foods
  • fatty foods
  • Exercising immediately after meals

If left untreated, reflux can cause damage to the esophagus and lead to serious health problems. For this reason, people who feel the symptoms of reflux should be examined by a doctor. Reflux is a disease that can generally be managed with medication and lifestyle adjustments. If these practices are not sufficient, reflux surgery is rarely used.