2. How Acid Reflux Happens
• Acid reflux occurs when acid
repeatedly flows back into your
esophagus from your stomach
• This backflow is a result of the
lower esophageal sphincter being
weak or too relaxed
• The acid then irritates the lining of
your esophagus resulting in burning
and discomfort
• If left untreated or if chronic, this is
known as Gastroesophageal reflux
disease (GERD)
3. GERD
• About 20% of the population has GERD
• If left untreated, GERD can result in esophagitis
• Extensive erosions of the esophagus
• Cancerous ulcers
• Risk factor
• Obesity
• Delayed stomach emptying
• When to see a doctor
• Seek medical care if symptoms continue for 2 weeks or
longer
• Seek medical care if symptoms continue after use of over-
the-counter medications
4. Daily Lifestyle
Choices
• Lifestyle choices such as diet play a huge role in preventing
acid reflux
• Food that help prevent acid reflux
• High fiber foods (vegetables, rice, sweet potatoes)
• Fruits
• Milk
• Lean meats
• Foods that are heartburn triggers include
• Fried foods
• Fast food
• Processed snacks
• Spicy foods
5. Antacids
• Antacids work by neutralizing the amount of
acid present in the stomach and esophagus
• Inhibit a proteolytic enzyme known as pepsin
• These are taken as needed if heartburn or
indigestion is elevated
• Usually due to poor eating or drinking
choices
• Impact on my health and well being
• Provides immediate relief of heartburn and
gas buildup
• Mostly used when traveling and when I am
forced to eat “sensitive foods”
6. Proton Pump
Inhibitors
• PPI’s work by temporarily inhibiting proton pumps found
in the stomach therefor decreasing the amount of acid
my stomach secretes
• Capable of healing peptic ulcers in the esophagus and
produce good results in treating GERD
• The intended use of PPI’s is taking a 14 day course
once every 4 months
• Impact on my health and well being
• Relieves my heartburn and acid reflux before it starts
• Allows me to consume “sensitive foods” without
getting heartburn
• Reduces my stress when it comes to eating
7. Effectiveness of
PPI’s and Antacids
• Both are very effective in treating acid reflux
• Antacids last about 1 hour and are only effective
when there is already heartburn present
• Not used as a preventative measure
• PPI’s have a limit on how many you can take
• 14 days every 4 months
• If you were to take a PPI everyday for 5 days, the
drug would reduce about 65% of your stomach
acid (Cleveland Clinic)
