Does Acid Reflux make the day painful and miserable? Does heartburn make delicious food like pizza and burgers not even an option? Acid reflux can affect all ages, male or female. Portland area residents can find out if they are
suffering from acid reflux and get the relief they need at Northwest ENT and Allergy Care. An ENT can diagnose patient’s symptoms and provide the proper medication and treatment for relief.

Sixty percent of the adult population will experience some type of acid reflux within a 12-month period, and 20%-30% will have weekly symptoms. If acid reflux happens more than it should, it might be time to see an ENT for proper diagnosis and treatment.
What Causes Acid Reflux?
Acid reflux can be caused by physical or lifestyle factors. Physical causes can include a malfunctioning or abnormal lower esophageal sphincter muscle, hiatal hernia, abnormal esophageal contractions, and slow emptying of the stomach. Lifestyle factors include diet (chocolate, citrus, fatty foods, spices), destructive habits (overeating, alcohol and tobacco abuse), and even pregnancy. Young children experience acid reflux merely due to the developmental immaturity of both the upper and lower esophageal sphincters.
How To Treat Acid Reflux?
An ear, nose and throat specialist can provide treatment for acid reflux abnormalities. Patients can expect a physical examination and a response to a trial of treatment with medication ranging from antacids, histamine antagonists, proton pump inhibitors, pro-motility drugs, and foam barrier medications. Some can be obtained over the counter and do not require a prescription.
If needed, an endoscopic exam, biopsy, x-ray, examination of the esophagus, 24 hour pH probe, esophageal motility testing and emptying studies of the stomach may need to be performed. Most of these procedures are performed in the office. There are also many lifestyle changes that can prevent acid reflux such as: avoiding eating and drinking within 2-3 hours to bedtime, not drinking alcohol, eat small meals slowly, and limiting foods that are known to cause heartburn problems.
Find out how to stop acid reflux from ruining the day by contacting the office of Northwest ENT and Allergy Care at (503) 513-8693.