Acid reflux or GERD is a major health issue. It can affect both women and mens health. In this condition, there is reflux of stomach content high in acid into the esophagus. Reflux is prevented by the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) which remains tightly closed and opens when peristaltic waves herald the imminent arrival of swallowed food. When the LES becomes faulty acid reflux will result. This is called GERD or gastro-esophageal reflux disease.

Is it possible to cure your acid reflux? If it is due to true LES incompetence, then there is no cure. In LES incompetence, you need maintenance acid suppressant treatment such as omeprazole, or if very severe or you develop secondary problems then surgical treatment such as fundoplication will relieve your symptoms.

However, the effeciency of the LES can be affected by several factors. Consider eliminating these factors that may impact on acid reflux before seeing your doctor or taking over the counter acid suppressants. Sometimes all you need is a change of lifestyle.

Obesity can cause or contribute to acid reflux. This is especially so in the apple type distribution of weight. The increased bulk in the abdomen makes it difficult for the esophagus to discharge food effectively into the stomach. In addition obese individuals are prone to developing hiatus hernias. The LES can be weakened by a hiatus hernia. An important aspect of acid reflux treatment is losing weight.

Acid reflux can be caused by wearing tight fitting clothes especially if it is two sizes too small. The increased pressure on the stomach may force acid back up into the gullet. Wear loose clothes and your reflux symptoms may go away.

Large volume of food in the stomach will increase the pressure on the LES and can trigger acid reflux. We all experience this at some time or other. Gastric clearance time is also increased by large volume allowing more opportunity for reflux. To counter this problem, eat smaller portions.

Acid Reflux can be affected by certain foods. Allergic Eosinophilic Esophagitis is an inflammation caused by cow’s milk intolerance. This is controlled by removing cow’s milk protein from the diet. Other foods that can affect the LES include fats, coffee, tea, alcohol, and some spices.

Some drugs can affect the LES and cause acid reflux. These drugs include broncho-dilators such as theophylline, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID), tri-cyclic antidepressants ie amitryptilline and drugs for Parkinson’s disease.

Female hormones can affect GERD symptoms. In a Scandinavian Study, women on hormones had increased risk of GERD. These drugs include the hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and the contraceptive pill. Sedatives and tranquillisers can slow down peristaltic waves in the esophagus affecting proper discharge of food from the esophagus.

If you are on medication and you have GERD, opt for liquid medication. Tetracycline and certain other drugs are corrosive to the esophageal lining. Tablets and capsules (gelcaps) can get stuck in the esophagus. Always drink a glass of water to wash the medication down. Avoid taking medication while lying down. GERD patients should always take medication sitting up or standing and avoid lying down immediately after.

Smoking relaxes the LES and nicotine is corrosive to esophageal lining. Stop smoking and your GERD might improve.

GERD risk is increased by certain exercises. This is the case in competitive weightlifting and cycling. Joggers can develop acid reflux symptoms.

If by eliminating all the risk factors, your symptoms disappear, then you have actually cured your acid reflux. However, if the symptoms persist, the next step is a visit to your doctor.