Acid reflux or GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease), commonly known as heartburn, occurs when the stomach acid refluxes upwards into the esophagus when the lower oesophageal sphincter is relaxed. People who are overweight or obese are more likely to suffer from acid reflux. The stomach of a person who has undergone gastric sleeve surgery is smaller in size which is increases the chances of suffering from acid reflux. While some individuals experience a relief from their symptoms after the surgery, others develop the symptoms even if they didn’t have acid reflux before.
Symptoms of Acid Reflux
- Burning sensation in the chest
- Dyspepsia (stomach discomfort)
- Regurgitation of food or sour liquid
- Difficulty in swallowing
- The feeling of lumping in your throat
Treatment options for acid reflux after gastric sleeve surgery
Dietary considerations
It is important for individuals who are suffering from acid reflux to consider the foods they are consuming as they can have an impact. Knowing which food to avoid and learning to balance dietary options goes a long way in easing the symptoms. Foods that trigger acid reflux after gastric sleeve surgery are fried foods and high-fat foods such as French fries, full-fat dairy products, fatty cuts of meat, and desserts like ice cream should be avoided or eaten sparingly. Fruits and vegetables that are acidic should also be avoided. The correct post-op bariatric diet must be followed.
Medical options
The medical intervention of acid reflux can include the use of medications or surgery. While some of the medication can be purchased over the counter, a physician should be consulted so that the correct combination is used. Some of the medications that can be used are antacids which are available in tablet or liquid form to reduce stomach acid levels, H2 blockers which block the production of stomach acid should be taken before meals and proton pump inhibitors which allow the damaged esophagus to heal after blocking acid production. If the acid reflux is uncontrolled, mexico bariatric revisional surgery from gastric sleeve to Roux-en-Y bypass is necessary and can be done in Mexico.
Conclusions
It is important to know that when left uncontrolled, acid reflux can lead to other more grave medical conditions such as cancer of the esophagus and Barrett’s Oesophagus. Once you start experiencing the symptoms, visit a healthcare facility so that you can speak to healthcare provider and receive treatment, do not self-medicate.
