Fluids in the stomach -- acid -- reflux through the stomach into the esophagus -- normally they should not -- burning the esophagus, causing the pain and potential complications. What we need to do is create a new valve mechanism that prevents this reflux, and at the same time keeps the stomach in the abdomen and not let it migrate into the chest, and to fix the diaphragm. What we need to do is take down the attachments between the spleen and the stomach in order to do this operation.

Reflux Disease (GERD)

Overview

Gastroesophageal reflux disease is a condition in which stomach contents flow back from the stomach into the esophagus. Consequently, the stomach acids that flow back irritate the lining of the esophagus, and often cause a burning sensation commonly called heartburn. Approximately ten percent of the population experience symptoms related to this condition, and a larger portion of adults feel this sensation at least once a month.

Cause

Reflux disease occurs when the valve at the end of the esophagus, called the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), does not function properly. The esophagus is a tube through which food passes from the mouth to the stomach. As the food passes into the stomach, the LES closes, blocking off the food and stomach acids from passing back through the esophagus. Hiatal hernias are often proposed as a cause for GERD. Doctors have suggested that the hiatal hernias weaken the LES, which can lead to GERD. However, additional contributing factors include: dysfunction of the esophagus, overproduction of stomach acid, pregnancy, and dietary and lifestyle choices.

Symptoms

Heartburn, also termed acid indigestion, is the most common symptom of GERD. It is often described as an uncomfortable, burning sensation that often travels from the the rib area to neck and throat. Heartburn can persist up to two hours, and often occurs after eating spicy or fatty foods, coffee, alcoholic beverages or meals with a high acid content such as tomato or citrus products. Changes in the body position including lying down or bending over may also cause reflux to occur. Other symptoms include regurgitation at rest or with activity, bitter taste in mouth, difficulty swallowing, sore throat, wheezing, chronic coughing or chest pain; similar symptoms of coughing, vomiting, or other respiratory problems are found in children and infant population.

The chest pain due to GERD is usually not associated with activity or bouts of exercise unlike the chest pain experienced with heart disease. Pain associated with heart disease usually worsens with exercise, and decreases with rest.

Diagnosis

There are several tests and procedures used by doctors for diagnosing GERD; upper GI series, endoscopy and pH testing of the esophagus. These tools are most often utilized for persons experiencing severe, long term episodes of GERD.

Treatment

Treatment for GERD often involves a multidisciplinary approach including modification of diet and lifestyle factors, and drug therapy. Recommended modifications often include: avoidance of fatty, spicy, or high acid foods, eating smaller portions, stop eating two to three hours prior to bedtime, smoking cessation, and weight loss. Drug therapy may include over-the-counter antacids, or prescription drugs that reduce stomach acid. For persons not improving with changes to diet, lifestyle or drug therapy, surgery is an option.

Thanks to Evanston Northwestern Healthcare for some of the above information. Please visit their site at  http://www.enh.org/.

Understanding Heartburn

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This information came from HELP HEARTBURN.COM   http://www.helpheartburn.com

Please visit their site for more information.

An Educational Resource For Heartburn And Acid Reflux