What is regurgitation and what are its main causes?
Regurgitation is the unforced return of food or liquids from the stomach to the mouth. Unlike vomiting, it is not accompanied by nausea or violent muscle contractions. Main causes include
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD ): A condition where stomach acid backs up into the esophagus.
- Hiatal hernia: Part of the stomach passes through the diaphragm.
- Lower esophageal sphincter dysfunction: The muscle that separates the esophagus from the stomach doesn't close properly.
- Overeating: eating too large or too rich a meal.
What are the symptoms associated with regurgitation?
Symptoms of regurgitation may include:
- Burning sensation behind the breastbone (pyrosis).
- Acidic or bittertaste in the mouth.
- Tooth erosion due to acidity.
- Chroniccough or hoarseness.
- Abdominal fullness or bloating.
How is regurgitation diagnosed?
The diagnosis of regurgitation is based on several methods:
- Medical history: Detailed discussion of symptoms and medical history.
- Endoscopy: Visual inspection of the esophagus and stomach using a camera.
- 24-hourpH-metry: Measurement of acidity in the esophagus over a prolonged period.
- Esophageal manometry: Assessment of esophageal muscle function.
What are the possible complications of untreated regurgitation?
Potential complications include:
- Esophagitis: Inflammation of the esophagus.
- Esophageal stenosis: narrowing of the esophagus causing difficulty in swallowing.
- Esophageal barrett's es ophagus: changes in the cells of the esophagus, increasing the risk of cancer.
- Pulmonary aspiration: Entry of gastric contents into the lungs, leading to pneumonia.
What treatments are available for regurgitation?
Treatments include:
- Lifestylemodifications: avoid heavy meals, lose weight, don't lie down immediately after eating.
- Medications: Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), H2 blockers, antacids.
- Surgery: Nissen fundoplication to strengthen the lower esophageal sphincter.
- Endoscopic therapies: Minimally invasive techniques to strengthen the esophageal muscles.
What foods should be avoided to prevent regurgitation?
To prevent regurgitation, avoid the following foods:
- Fatty and friedfoods.
- Citrus fruits and juices.
- Tomatoes and tomato products.
- Caffeine: coffee, tea, soft drinks.
- Chocolate.
- Alcohol.
- Peppermint.
Is regurgitation common in infants and children?
Yes, regurgitation is common in infants due to their immature digestive systems. Most babies grow out of it naturally by the age of 12 to 18 months. However, if regurgitation persists, it may require medical evaluation to rule out gastroesophageal reflux disease.
What tips can help reduce nocturnal regurgitation?
To reduce nocturnal regurgitation, follow these tips:
- Raise the head of the bed by 10 to 15 cm to reduce acid reflux.
- Avoid eating for at least three hours before bedtime.
- Sleep on your left side to minimize symptoms.
- Use special pillows to maintain a reclined posture.
What are the risk factors for regurgitation?
The main risk factors include:
- Obesity.
- Pregnancy.
- Excessive caffeine andalcohol consumption.
- Smoking.
- Certain diseases such as diabetes and scleroderma.
When should I consult a doctor about regurgitation?
Consult a doctor if :
- Regurgitation is frequent and persistent.
- You have severe chest pain.
- You have difficulty swallowing.
- You notice unexplained weight loss.
- You have respiratory symptoms such as chronic cough or asthma.
