What is Acid Reflux?
Acid reflux can be extremely unpleasant for many people, it occurs as a result of the lower oesophageal sphincter not closing fully once food has passed through it. Subsequently, the acid that is formed by your stomach can make its way into the oesophagus. The typical symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease are heartburn, regurgitation and dysphagia. The atypical symptoms include lumpiness or a feeling of swelling in the throat, asthma like symptoms and recurrent chest infections.
What are the causes of Acid Reflux?
There are a wide variety of causes of acid reflux and these include, smoking, snacking later in the evenings, eating large portion sizes, stress, being overweight or obese, a hiatus hernia, certain anti-inflammatories and even certain foods and beverages. Some of the most common culprits include coffee, alcohol, spicy foods, fatty foods and chocolate.
Is there a link between Obesity and Acid Reflux?
There is undoubtedly a link between acid reflux and being overweight or obese. The excess weight that you carry when you are overweight, results in increased pressure on the abdomen, which makes stomach acid leakage more likely. It has been reported that losing weight will significantly reduce acid reflux and ultimately improve your quality of life. If you have already tried adopting a healthy lifestyle and a regular exercise regime, but have struggled for a long time with your weight, then weight loss surgery could be an option for you. Here at Obesity Surgery Manchester we offer a range of weight loss surgeries including, sleeve gastrectomy, gastric bypass and gastric banding.
Does weight loss surgery stop Acid Reflux from occurring?
Of course we can never be sure whether each weight loss surgery undertaken will successfully result in the omission of acid reflux completely. However, previous research has suggested that gastric bypass surgery in particular can significantly relieve symptoms of acid reflux or even cure your reflux. For those of us who have tried the conventional weight loss measures and have been unsuccessful, gastric bypass surgery could be the solution. Depending upon your weight, BMI and presenting symptoms, appropriate investigations will be initiated, such as a gastroscopy, a 24 hour pH Manometry and pH impedance if you are within a normal weight range or are mildly overweight if appropriate. If you have significant obesity with other co-morbidities, then weight loss surgery in the form of Gastric Bypass surgery could be the answer. During your initial consultation here at Obesity Surgery Manchester, you will have an in-depth discussion with Professor Senapati regarding your symptoms.
Here at Obesity Surgery Manchester we have many patients who no longer suffer with acid reflux after having weight loss surgery. Click here to read one of our lovely patients story after undergoing weight loss surgery!