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Acid Reflux

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Acid Reflux: New ways to treat an old issue
Stacy C. Darracott
NS304
Professor Linda Flowers
Park University

For my position paper I plan to discuss the several techniques used in treating acid reflux. Since the majority of the population suffers from some form of Acid Reflux, myself included, I thought that this would be a great opportunity to do some research on the different treatments, and find out exactly why and what causes it. My paper will take a closer look at the non-pharmaceutical approaches that are surgical in nature or homeopathic in nature. Lastly, my paper will not only help the reader to understand what acid reflux is exactly, but will help to inform them as well as myself, to the every changing techniques and practices of physicians who are trying to help those who suffer from acid reflux, a better a ray of choices when discussing their treatment plans. Gastro esophageal reflux disease is a consequence of the failure of the normal anti reflux barrier to protect against frequent and abnormal amounts of gastro esophageal reflux. It is the gastric contents moving effortlessly from the stomach to the esophagus. It is a normal physiologic process that occurs multiple times each day especially after large meals.
Possible factors determining whether reflux occurs include abdominal straining, presence of hiatal hernia and degree of esophageal shortening and duration of transient lower esophageal sphincter relaxations. Pregnancy also increases the risk of reflux by increasing intra-abdominal pressure and through hormonal mechanisms. In addition, pharmacologic agents such as progesterone-containing medications (birth control pills), narcotics, benzodiazepines, calcium-channel blockers and theophylline may decrease the pressure of LES. The relationship of H. pylori and GERD has been one of controversy. Some early studies suggested

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