Acid Reflux Treatment Dubai (GERD)
Overview of Acid Reflux Treatment Dubai
There is usually a protective valve at the lower end of the food pipe(Oesophagus) just before the stomach starts. It is called the Lower Oesophagal Sphincter (LOS). It is a one-way valve which is designed to allow the foot to go down but not allow anything to come up from the stomach. Usually, the LES closes promptly as food passes through it.
If it doesn’t fully close or open frequently, stomach acid can move into the oesophagus, causing heartburn and a sensation of acid or food coming up into the foot pipe. If these acid reflux symptoms occur more often than usual, it may indicate gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD. Read on as we offer detailed insight on what acid reflux is and why you may need a Gerd specialist In Dubai.
Why Does Acid Reflux Happen?
The stomach usually produces acid to break down food and improve digestion. The stomach lining is built to withstand this acid, unlike the unprotected oesophagus.
The gastroesophageal sphincter typically prevents stomach contents from flowing back into the oesophagus. When this valve fails, acid reflux occurs, causing heartburn as stomach acid rises into the oesophagus.
What Does Acid Reflux Feel Like?
Heartburn, the main acid reflux symptom, is an uncomfortable burning sensation in the chest, often extending to the throat, with a sour or acidic taste.
You may also have a sour or bitter-tasting acid backing up your throat or mouth. This is known as regurgitation.
You may also have
- Nausea
- Bad breath
- Trouble breathing
- A hard time swallowing
- Vomiting
- A lump in your throat
If you suspect you have acid reflux or GERD, it’s advisable to consult with our Gerd Specialist In Dubai, Dr Balaji.
What are the Risk Factors of Consistent Acid Reflux?
Risk factors for getting acid or GERD reflux include:
- obesity
- smoking
- low levels of physical exercise
- medications, including drugs for asthma, painkillers, sedatives, and antidepressants
- Pregnancy
If you are experiencing symptoms of consistent acid reflux, it’s advisable to consult with a GERD specialist in Dubai for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate management.
How is Acid Reflux Diagnosed?
Diagnosing gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) typically involves diagnostic tests:
- Endoscopy examines the oesophagus and stomach using a flexible tube with a light and camera to detect inflammation or abnormalities.
- pH monitoring assesses acid exposure over 24 hours
- Oesophageal manometry measures pressure and contractions to evaluate the lower oesophagal sphincter function.
If you suspect you have acid reflux, it’s essential to consult with a GERD specialist in Dubai. They can recommend appropriate diagnostic tests and develop a tailored acid reflux treatment plan.
Acid Reflux Treatment Dubai: What are your options?
The treatment of acid reflux or GERD often involves lifestyle changes, dietary adjustments, and medications. Surgery may be considered for severe cases or complications.
Here are common acid reflux treatment Dubai:
Medications
- H2 Blockers: H2 Blockers, like ranitidine and famotidine, reduce stomach acid production.
- Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs): PPIs, such as omeprazole and esomeprazole, are prescribed for severe acid reflux.
- Antacids: Antacids offer temporary relief by neutralizing stomach acid for occasional heartburn or indigestion.
Prokinetic Agents: These medications help improve the motility of the digestive system, reducing the likelihood of acid reflux.
Lifestyles Changes
Adopting lifestyle changes can be beneficial, such as:
- Improving posture, for instance, sitting up straighter
- Maintaining a healthy weight.
- Quitting smoking.
- Increasing fibre intake.
- Avoiding late-night meals.
- Elevating the bed during sleep.
Surgical Methods
- Fundoplication: Fundoplication is a laparoscopic (keyhole surgery) procedure that tightens muscles to prevent reflux by wrapping the upper stomach around the oesophagal sphincter through small incisions.
- LINX Device: It is a ring of magnetic beads placed at the stomach-esophagus junction. It prevents refluxing acid while allowing the passage of food contents.
- Transoral Incisionless Fundoplication (TIF): It is a non-surgical procedure performed through the mouth using an endoscope. It mimics fundoplication by partially wrapping the lower oesophagus and tightening the lower oesophagal sphincter.
Contact Dr.Balaji for Acid Reflux Treatment Dubai
Managing GERD involves a holistic approach, combining lifestyle adjustments and effective medications. If you’re seeking specialized care for GERD, contact Dr.Balaji for expert guidance and tailored treatment.
With extensive experience in gastrointestinal health, Dr.Balaji, a GERD specialist in Dubai, is dedicated to providing personalized solutions to alleviate symptoms and improve your overall well-being.
Schedule an appointment today for Acid Reflux Treatment Dubai.
FAQs
If left untreated, acid reflux can result in complications such as inflammation of the oesophagus , narrowing of the esophagus and, in severe instances, Barrett’s oesophagus, which is classified as a premalignant condition predisposing to esophageal cancer.
Consuming large, fatty meals, acidic or spicy foods, citrus fruits, caffeine, and chocolate can trigger acid reflux, and eating close to bedtime or lying down after meals increases the risk.
Acid reflux disease can be treated with medications like PPIs and H2 blockers and lifestyle changes for comprehensive management. Contact a GERD specialist in Dubai for tailored treatment.