Acid Reflux in Adults

What is Acid Reflux?

Acid reflux or Gastroesophageal reflux (GER) occurs in adults when the content of the stomach regurgitates back into the esophagus [1]. This acid-rich liquid can inflame and damage the lining of your esophagus [2] [3]. 

Stomach acid is the most harmful component of the refluxed liquid. Although bile may damage your esophagus, the extent of the damage is not as completely understood as the damaging effects of stomach acid [3].

What causes Acid Reflux?

There is not a clear-cut cause of acid reflux. The causes of acid reflux can vary from person to person. Some people simply produce a higher amount of stomach acid, but in most cases, the following factors contribute to acid reflux in patients:

• After eating a large or fatty meal.
• After drinking alcohol.
• Lying down, bending over, or bending and lifting.
• After smoking.
• After eating chocolate, caffeine, onions, spicy foods, mint, and some medications.
• Lying down soon after eating.
• After taking tranquilizers, such as benzodiazepines including diazepam (Valium) and alprazolam (Xanax).
• After taking Theophylline (Elixophyllin), an asthma medication. In some cases, acid reflux symptoms may have no apparent cause.

Acid Reflux Symptoms

• A painful or burning sensation in the upper abdomen or chest, sometimes radiating to the back (heartburn).
• Difficulties breathing and suffering from hoarseness because the refluxed fluid irritates the larynx and respiratory tract.
• Excess belching is common.

How does acid reflux affect you?

• Acid reflux is unpleasant and can greatly affect your lifestyle.
• The symptoms can lower your quality of life.
• Prolonged exposure to refluxed acid leads to oesophagitis (inflammation of the esophagus), and in extreme cases can cause scar tissue that makes it difficult or impossible to swallow.
• It can cause ulceration that leads to bleeding and an iron deficiency.