NOT JUST HEARTBURN: UNDERSTANDING ACID REFLUX

Posted by TTN Palawan on Nov 22, 2016

STATISTICS ON ACID REFLUX

60 million adults experience acid reflux at least once a month
25 million people deal with acid reflux on a daily basis
At least 50% of these people have acid reflux at night that interferes with sleep
The average time of an acid reflux episode is 2 hours
65% of all people with acid reflux are in their 40s or older
Chronic acid reflux occurs at least 3 times per week
Chronic sufferers have a 50% chance of damaging their esophagus
20% of people with acid reflux develop gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)

CAUSES OF ACID REFLUX

Stomach Abnormalities. Hiatal hernia makes it easier for acid to move into your esophagus. Can happen to poepleat any age
Smoking. Damages mucus membranes and increases acid secretion. Reduces saliva production which normally neutralizes acid.
Diet. Alcohol, carbonated drinks, fatty foods, and acidic foods can all contribute to acid reflux. Consuming large meals or lying down after eating can also cause acid reflux.
Obesity. Excess fat puts pressure on the stomach and increases the risk of acid reflux. Losing weight may help reduce the incidence of acid reflux.

DANGERS OF UNTREATED ACID REFLUX

Esophagitis. A painful condition that can lead to bleeding, ulcers, or scarring.
Barrett's Esophagus. Esophageal lining damage causes abnormal cell changes and can lead to cancer.
Esophageal strictures. Scar tissue around the esophagus narrows the tube and makes it feel like food is stuck

source: refluxspecialists.com