What is reflux?
Acid reflux occurs when stomach acid flows back into the oesophagus due to weakness or dysfunction of the valve between the oesophagus and stomach. This can cause symptoms such as heartburn, regurgitation, chest discomfort, and difficulty swallowing, and may lead to inflammation of the oesophagus if symptoms are persistent or untreated.
How is it investigated?
We offer investigation of acid reflux through endoscopy which assesses the upper gastrointestinal tract with a specialised camera. We are also able to perform 24 hr pH testing and oesophageal manometry through our GI physiology service. These are gold standard tests used to assess acid exposure over a longer period of time and correlate patient symptoms with objective reflux episodes. They also assess how well the oesophagus contracts. These investigations allow us to specifically tailor treatments to the individual patient.
How is it treated?
Reflux and heartburn treatment is multi-factorial. The first thing to focus on our lifestyle adjustable factors and these can be discussed at consultation. Once these factors have been optimised we look at the medical management of your symptoms. Reflux can often be transient and settle with a course of treatment. Finally surgery can be offered to those with symptoms that are persistent or not settling with medical management. The aim of surgery is to strengthen the mechanism at the bottom of the oesophagus that has weakend and is allowing acid contents to come up into the oesophagus from the stomach. There are different types of anti-reflux surgery all of which adopt a minimally invasive approach. The type of surgery you will be offered is based on the results of your investigations.