Can esophageal reflux be cured?
Table of Contents
Can esophageal reflux be cured?
Yes, most cases of acid reflux, sometimes referred to as gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, can be cured.
How do you treat esophageal reflux?
Over-the-counter and prescription medicines
- Antacids. Doctors may recommend antacids to relieve mild heartburn and other mild GER and GERD symptoms.
- H2 blockers. H2 blockers lower the amount of acid your stomach makes.
- Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs).
- Other medicines.
- Fundoplication.
- Bariatric surgery.
- Endoscopy.
How long does it take for esophagus to heal from acid reflux?
It might take 1 to 3 weeks to heal. Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor or nurse call line if you are having problems. It’s also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.
Can stress cause esophagus problems?
Stress affects esophageal motility. A previous study demonstrated that intravenous CRH administration enhanced esophageal sensitivity to mechanical distension, increased esophageal contractility, and decreased LES relaxation, therefore improving esophageal bolus clearance.
How can you tell if you have trouble with your esophagus?
Symptoms
- Difficult swallowing.
- Painful swallowing.
- Chest pain, particularly behind the breastbone, that occurs with eating.
- Swallowed food becoming stuck in the esophagus (food impaction)
- Heartburn.
- Acid regurgitation.
What medications irritate the esophagus?
Medications and dietary supplements that can irritate your esophagus and cause heartburn pain include:
- Antibiotics, such as tetracycline and clindamycin.
- Bisphosphonates taken orally, such as alendronate (Fosamax), ibandronate (Boniva) and risedronate (Actonel, Atelvia)
- Iron supplements.
- Quinidine.
