Gastroesophageal reflux, or in short, reflux is the name given to the reflux of food and acid from the stomach into the esophagus. It is also known as “chest burn” among the people because it causes burning in the chest.
Symptoms of Reflux:
Burning sensation in the chest (heartburn), sometimes up to the throat, leaving a sour taste in the mouth
Chest pain
Difficulty in swallowing
Dry cough
Hoarseness or sore throat
Mouth of food or sour liquid (acid reflux)
Causes of reflux:
Stress
Eating fast, eating a lot, stressful eating
Going to bed within 2 hours after a meal
Smoking and alcohol
Caffeine (coffee, tea, green tea and found in cola)
Fatty foods that reduce the rate of gastric emptying
Exercising immediately after meals
Stomach Abnormalities, Hernias
Pregnancy
Lifestyle Changes made in the style provide comfort to patients:
If there is excess weight, it is absolutely necessary to use clay o should be given
Stomach should not be filled too much during meals
Water or solid food intake should be stopped, especially at least 3 hours before going to bed
The head of the bed should be elevated by 15-20 cm
Acidic fruit juices such as orange and lemon should not be drunk
Fried foods, creams, fatty cheeses, meals with lots of tomato paste, alcoholic beverages, coffee, tea, acidic drinks, chocolate, chips, sweet and oily buns, sweets Processed foods such as onions, garlic, sausage, salami, sausage should be consumed as little as possible
If smoking is used, quit
Food should be eaten slowly in a quiet environment. Donuts should be chewed thoroughly.
Large amounts of food should not be eaten.
Bacterial growth and hydrogen gas formation should be reduced by reducing carbohydrate intake. The gas inflates the stomach, causing rebound.
The person should consume enough water. Drinking water should be stopped half an hour before the meal and should be started 2 hours after the meal. At least 2 L of water should be consumed per day.
Carbonated drinks should not be used.
The Role of Acupuncture in Reflux Treatment
Acupuncture treatment increases stress tolerance. It calms the person.
Acupuncture relieves pain by increasing the body’s natural pain relievers (endorphins).
It regulates the work of internal organs. Balances muscle tone.
Regulates the function of the esophageal sphincter.
Regulates gastric acid secretion.
It reduces the need for drugs used for reflux. It prevents possible side effects of drugs.
It prevents overeating and consequently stomach reflux by enabling the person to control his or her nutrition.
It facilitates weight loss and helps to get rid of obesity if there is obesity
If the person smokes, it makes it easier to quit smoking.
