What Is Reflux? What are the symptoms? How to Feed and How to Treat

Reflux disease, which is quite common today, is a digestive system problem that occurs when the contents of the stomach escape back into the esophagus. Especially intense stress, irregular nutrition and fast pace of life make this ailment more frequent.

What Are the Symptoms of Reflux?

The most common symptoms in patients with reflux are:

• Burning sensation in the middle of the chest, especially after eating
• The appearance of bitter or sour water in the mouth
• Difficulty swallowing
• Feeling of stuffiness in the throat
• Chronic cough and hoarseness
• If the feeling of increased discomfort at night increases especially when these complaints lie down, the likelihood of reflux becomes stronger.

How Should Reflux Patients Eat?

The most important shield in reflux disease is proper nutrition. In everyday life, it is necessary to observe these recommendations at every meal;

• Food should be eaten sparingly and often
• You should not immediately go to bed after meals, wait at least 2-3 hours
• Fatty, fried and spicy foods should be avoided
• Coffee, tea, chocolate and carbonated drinks should be limited
• Acidic foods (tomatoes, citrus fruits, etc.) should be consumed with caution
• Smoking and alcohol should not be used, besides ensuring weight control and avoiding tight clothing can also reduce complaints.

How to Treat Reflux

The first step in treating reflux is lifestyle changes. Correction of the diet and the avoidance of triggering habits bring significant relief in most patients.If necessary, drug treatments that reduce stomach acid can be applied under the control of a doctor. In cases that are advanced and cannot be controlled with medication, surgical methods may come into play.