Acid reflux is one of the most common problems affecting people and is the commonest condition affecting the gastrointestinal system. It can significantly worsen your quality of life and even affect your sleep. The good news, however, is that it can be easily prevented and managed in most cases with simple lifestyle changes, and a few medications are rarely needed.
What is acid reflux?
Acid reflux occurs when the acid, which is normally secreted and found in the stomach goes up to the food pipe (the esophagus), causing inflammation and irritation. The stomach is resistant to the acid it produces to mainly help digest protein and kill bacteria, but the esophagus is not. One of the main mechanisms preventing the reflux of such acid to the esophagus is the presence of a sphincter at the lower part of the esophagus as well as other factors increasing the pressure within it. When such mechanisms, fail, reflux occurs.