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Reflux Disease
Reflux disease can affect people of all ages, but it is most common in adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It is slightly more common in men than in women
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Reflux disease, also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), is a chronic condition that occurs when stomach acid frequently flows back up into the esophagus. This can cause a variety of symptoms, including heartburn, chest pain, and difficulty swallowing.

    How does reflux disease present itself?

    Reflux disease can present itself in a variety of ways, depending on the severity of the condition and the individual's symptoms. Some common scenarios include:

    • Needing to avoid certain foods due to their symptoms.
    • Having difficulty traveling due to the need to use the bathroom frequently.
    • Experiencing anxiety or depression due to the challenges of living with reflux disease.

    How can I help myself?

    There are several things you can do to help yourself manage reflux disease, including:

    • Maintain a healthy diet: Eating a healthy diet can help to reduce inflammation and improve symptoms.
    • Managing stress: Stress can worsen reflux disease symptoms, so finding healthy ways to manage stress is important.
    • Getting regular exercise: Exercise can help to improve overall health and may help to reduce reflux disease symptoms.
    • Taking medication as prescribed: If Mr Veeramootoo prescribes medication to treat reflux disease, it is important to take it as directed.

    Why do people get reflux disease?

    The exact cause of reflux disease is unknown, but it is thought to be caused by a combination of genetic and lifestyle factors.

    • Genetics: Reflux disease is more common in people with a family history of the condition.
    • Lifestyle factors: Certain lifestyle factors, such as smoking, obesity, and pregnancy, can increase the risk of developing reflux disease.

    Who gets reflux disease?

    Reflux disease can affect people of all ages, but it is most common in adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It is slightly more common in men than in women.

    What are the symptoms of reflux disease?

    The symptoms of reflux disease can vary depending on the severity of the condition. Some common symptoms include:

    • Heartburn: Heartburn is a burning sensation in the chest that is caused by stomach acid backing up into the esophagus.
    • Chest pain: Chest pain is another common symptom of reflux disease. It can be caused by inflammation of the esophagus or by spasms of the esophageal muscles.
    • Difficulty swallowing: Difficulty swallowing is a symptom of reflux disease that can be caused by strictures in the esophagus or by inflammation of the esophagus.
    • Regurgitation: Regurgitation is the backflow of stomach contents into the mouth. It is a less common symptom of reflux disease.
    • Other symptoms: Other symptoms of reflux disease may include hoarseness, a sore throat, and a dry cough.

    How can reflux disease affect lifestyle?

    Reflux disease can have a significant impact on a person's lifestyle. The symptoms can make it difficult to eat, sleep, and work. They can also lead to anxiety and depression.

    Diagnosing Reflux Disease

    Diagnosing reflux disease typically involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic tests.

    Medical History

    Your doctor will ask about your symptoms, including when they started, how severe they are, and how they affect your daily life. They will also ask about your medical history, including any family history of reflux disease or other GI conditions, and any lifestyle factors that may contribute to the condition, such as smoking, obesity, or pregnancy.

    Physical Examination

    Your doctor will perform a physical examination to check for any signs of reflux disease, such as abdominal tenderness, bloating, or signs of esophageal inflammation or damage.

    Frimley Upper GI - diagnosis and treatment of Reflux Disease illustration

    Diagnostic Tests

    A variety of diagnostic tests can be used to help diagnose reflux disease. These tests may include:

    • Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD): EGD is an endoscopic procedure that allows the doctor to visualize the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum using a thin, flexible tube with a camera and light (endoscope). During the procedure, the doctor may also take tissue samples (biopsies) for further examination under a microscope.
    • Esophageal pH monitoring: Esophageal pH monitoring involves placing a thin, flexible tube with a sensor down the esophagus to measure the acidity levels in the esophagus for a period of 24-48 hours. This test can help determine how often and for how long stomach acid is refluxing into the esophagus.
    • Barium swallow: A barium swallow is an X-ray procedure that allows the doctor to visualize the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum after drinking a liquid containing barium, a contrast material that outlines these organs on X-ray images. This test can help detect abnormalities in the structure of the esophagus, such as strictures or hiatal hernias.

    Success Rates of Diagnosis

    The success rates of diagnosing reflux disease are high, with accurate diagnosis in over 90% of cases. The combination of medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic tests provides a comprehensive assessment of the condition and its underlying causes.

    Pre-diagnosis and Post-diagnosis

    Pre-diagnosis:

    Before being diagnosed with reflux disease, you may experience symptoms such as heartburn, chest pain, difficulty swallowing, regurgitation, or other GI discomfort. These symptoms can disrupt your daily life and affect your overall well-being.

    Post-diagnosis:

    After being diagnosed with reflux disease, Mr Veeramootoo will discuss treatment options with you. Treatment typically involves lifestyle modifications, medication, or, in some cases, surgery. With proper management, most people with reflux disease can control their symptoms and improve their quality of life.

    Mr Raj Veeramootoo Upper GI Consultant Frimley with a female patient post surgery 4H5A1865a-Edit

    Long-term Effects

    Reflux disease is a chronic condition that requires ongoing management. However, with proper treatment, most people can manage their symptoms and prevent complications such as esophageal ulcers, strictures, or Barrett's esophagus. Regular follow-ups with Mr Veeramootoo are important to monitor the condition and adjust treatment as needed.

    Reflux Disease Surgery/treatment

    If lifestyle modifications and medication are not effective in controlling reflux disease, surgery may be considered. Surgery for reflux disease is typically reserved for patients with severe symptoms or complications.

    Types of Reflux Disease Surgery

    There are two main types of surgery for reflux disease:

    • Fundoplication: Fundoplication is a surgical procedure that involves wrapping the upper part of the stomach (fundus) around the lower part of the esophagus to strengthen the esophageal sphincter and prevent stomach acid from refluxing into the esophagus.
    • LINX procedure: The LINX procedure involves implanting a magnetic device around the lower esophagus. The magnetic beads attract each other, creating a barrier that prevents stomach acid from refluxing into the esophagus.

    What to Expect After Surgery for Reflux Disease

    After surgery for reflux disease, you will typically stay in the hospital overnight for observation. You may experience some discomfort or pain in the chest or abdomen, which can be managed with medication. You will also likely have dietary restrictions and may need to take medication to reduce stomach acid production.

    Going Forward After Surgery for Reflux Disease

    Most people who have surgery for reflux disease experience significant relief from their symptoms. They may still need to take medication to reduce stomach acid production, but they can typically resume their normal diet and activities. It is important to follow Mr Veeramootoo's instructions and attend follow-up appointments to monitor your recovery and ensure the long-term success of the surgery.

    Reflux disease is a chronic condition that can cause a variety of symptoms. With proper diagnosis and treatment, most people with reflux disease can manage their symptoms and live a normal life.

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