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Gerd

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LAPAROSOPIC SURGERY FOR GASTROESOPHAGEAL REFLUX DISEASE Gastroesophageal reflux is the most common gastrointestinal disorder of the western world. Gallup poles have elucidated that approximately 44 % of the adult population in the U.S. has some abnormal reflux of acidic gastric juices into the esophagus on a monthly basis. Roughly 10% of patients require daily acid suppression medication for relief of symptoms. GERD accounts for over 1.0 million out patient visits to physicians every year! Gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) does not close properly, and stomach contents splash back, or reflux, into the esophagus. The LES is a ring of muscle located at the far end of the esophagus as …show more content…

The goals of therapy for GERD include: a) Symptomatic relief; b) Resolution of esophagitis (inflammatory changes of the esophagus as a result of abnormal acid exposure); and c) Prevention of complications.
Lifestyle Changes
The first step in treating GERD includes lifestyle and diet modifications: And these are usually very effective.
1. Elevate the head the head of your bed. You must place blocks under the bed post. Pillows will not help. Patients with GERD tend to have more frequent and longer episodes of reflux in the supine position than normal individuals.
2. Try to limit or avoid foods that can exacerbate GERD. This includes decreasing alcohol intake. Eat small meals.
3. DO NOT SMOKE. Aside from it's effect on LES and GERD, it can cause you a multitude of serious life and limb threatening problems. But you already knew that. Right?!
4. If possible, lose weight. Excess weight can increase intra-abdominal pressure sufficient enough to overcome the resting pressure of the LES.
5. Avoid tight fitting clothes.
6. Avoid lying down for several hours after eating.
Medical Therapy
• If at all possible, try to avoid medications that act to lower the LES pressure. (see above)
• Antacids, such as ALKA-SELTZER, MAALOX, MYLANTA, PEPTO-BISMOL, ROLAIDS, and RIOPAN, are usually the first drugs recommended to relieve heartburn and other mild GERD symptoms. Many brands on the market

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