Stomach Problems: Treatments, Myths, and Facts

Illnesses such as reflux and gastritis are part of the sensations that millions of people in Mexico and thousands in Durango experience every day and can lead to more serious health problems if not treated adequately and promptly.

Alicia Sofía Villar, a gastroenterologist certified by the Mexican Board of Gastroenterology, states that the treatment of these conditions has key factors, their causes, and should seek expert attention and new drugs time. patient.

Regarding reflux disease statistics, doctors emphasize that certain periods of a person’s life may increase the prevalence of the condition. Obesity, smoking, genetics and alcohol consumption are prominent risk factors, as are pregnant women. Helicobacter pylori is an important risk factor for gastritis, which affects as many as seven in 10 Mexicans, Villar explained. The bacteria can be spread through food and non-drinkable water and is more common in developing countries.

Villar emphasized that patients with recurrent reflux symptoms, especially those with risk factors, should consider seeking specialized medical care. This becomes even more urgent if symptoms affect quality of life or complications such as vomiting blood or weight loss develop. He also mentioned that those with risk factors for Barrett’s esophagus, a precancerous condition, should receive closer monitoring and endoscopy.

Gastroenterologists refer to the use of drugs such as “Prazole”, which can reduce the acidity of the stomach, this drug is very common, but it must be taken under the guidance and supervision of a doctor. These drugs can effectively relieve symptoms and promote gastric mucosal healing.

However, Villar also noted the need to be aware of antibiotic resistance and drug-drug interactions. He stressed that while the drugs are available in pharmacies, it is vital to consult a health professional before using them.

current treatments

In our country, more than 40 million people suffer from conditions related to acidity such as gastritis, reflux and/or peptic ulcers, equivalent to one in five Mexicans.

Specifically, gastritis is an inflammation of the stomach lining that causes gastric juices to damage the lining. If it is acute, it will appear suddenly; if it is acute, it will appear suddenly. If not treated properly, it can become a chronic condition with serious consequences.

To this end, a new generation of specialists has resorted to a treatment based on potassium-competitive acid blockers (P-CABS), a drug that has recently arrived in Mexico and offers broad advantages over “Prazole”; compared to current treatments ( Unlike “prarazole”), they have the advantage of being fast-relief, as they start to work within 30 minutes of ingestion, reducing symptoms such as heartburn and burning sensation in the chest and throat.

Usually “Prazoles” need to be taken 15-30 minutes before breakfast, as they need to be activated to be effective; P-CABS, on the other hand, are powerful and therefore can be taken at any time of the day, with or without Served with food, as long as they are taken at the same time, provides comfort and flexibility for physician and patient.

Studies have shown that this new therapy is highly stable, and patients do not need to take it multiple times a day, helping to protect the stomach. Nocturnal heartburn is one of the most common symptoms suffered by people with these acid-related disorders, unfortunately, “prarazole” cannot control this symptom; with potassium competitive acid blockers, you can maintain continuous control Stomach acid, so there is no such discomfort at night.

denial of myths

Doctors debunk some popular myths about using baking soda as a long-term solution to heartburn. While it may provide temporary relief, it does not address the underlying cause and can have negative effects if overused. Villar stresses that addressing the problem itself is crucial, not masking symptoms.

The relationship between milk use and heartburn was also studied, debunking the notion that a glass of milk can be effective against heartburn. While milk may temporarily relieve symptoms, it does not address the underlying cause and is not an effective long-term treatment.

He also explained that despite some myths, there is no direct correlation between a person’s personality and the development of these disorders. However, psychological stress can exacerbate symptoms.

risk factors

Expert Alicia Sofía Villar clearly emphasizes the importance of adequately treating gastrointestinal disorders to avoid long-term complications, which must start with healthy habits to keep the digestive system in balance.

One of the basic techniques is weight control, because excess weight can increase intra-abdominal pressure, cause reflux and worsen symptoms.

Another key tip is to eat dinner at least two to three hours before bed to allow the digestive process to complete before bed on your back. Additionally, Villar mentioned the importance of sleeping on the left side, which can reduce the incidence of nocturnal reflux.

Villar also highlighted the link between certain foods and increased symptoms. Eating fatty foods, coffee, and caffeinated foods can exacerbate reflux and gastritis symptoms. Therefore, it is recommended to limit or avoid these foods, especially in patients who are predisposed to these diseases.

Patients with persistent reflux of more than two or three times per week and with symptoms that persist for years should seek immediate medical attention, experts say. Also, people with a family history of esophageal or stomach cancer who have warning signs like bleeding or weight loss should seek medical help.

Villar concluded by emphasizing that despite the many misconceptions about gastrointestinal disease, it’s crucial to trust information supported by the medical community. Consultation with a specialist is essential for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.

alarm

Risk factors for reflux disease:

*obesity.

*smokes.

* Heredity.

*Alcohol consumption