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The Esophageal Defense System: How to Prevent Acid Reflux from Affecting Your Health?
The esophagus, as an important part of the digestive system, is mainly responsible for transporting food from the throat to the stomach. However, the esophagus is also at risk from acid reflux, which can cause not only uncomfortable symptoms but also long-term health consequences. In this article, we’ll explore the structure and function of the esophagus and how to reduce the damage that acid reflux can cause to your body.
Structure and function of the esophagus
The esophagus is a fibromuscular tube about 25 cm long that is located in the chest cavity, behind the trachea and heart, and connects to the stomach through the diaphragm. There is a ring-shaped esophageal sphincter at the top of the esophagus, which is responsible for preventing food and stomach acid from refluxing and relaxing during swallowing to allow food to pass through. The esophagus's inner wall is made up of multiple layers of squamous epithelium, while its outer wall is composed of smooth muscle, which allows the esophagus to move efficiently and push food into the stomach.
Risks of acid reflux
Acid reflux is usually caused by an incompetent lower esophageal sphincter, which allows acidic contents of the stomach to flow back into the esophagus. Common symptoms of this condition include heartburn, chest pain, and difficulty swallowing. If not treated promptly, it may lead to serious diseases such as esophagitis, Barrett's esophagus, and even esophageal cancer.
The esophagus's defense system not only includes the structural sphincter, but also depends on normal eating habits and lifestyle.
Precautions
Dietary Adjustment
In daily life, avoid eating foods that are too spicy, greasy or acidic, as these foods may increase the secretion of gastric acid. In addition, a moderate intake of high-fiber foods can promote intestinal health and reduce excess stomach acid.
Lifestyle changes
Controlling your weight can significantly reduce your risk of acid reflux. Obesity increases abdominal pressure and promotes acid reflux. Also, avoid lying down immediately after eating; keeping the body upright can help prevent reflux of food and acidic contents.
Medical Intervention
For people with severe acid reflux, medical intervention may be necessary. Some common treatments include antacids, H2 receptor antagonists, and proton pump inhibitors, which are effective in reducing stomach acid secretion. In some cases, surgery may be needed to restore the function of the lower esophageal sphincter.
Health Monitoring
Regularly checking your esophageal health is essential to preventing acid reflux and its complications. If you experience frequent heartburn or other discomfort, see your doctor. Tests such as an endoscopy can help diagnose the root of the problem.
ConclusionIn short, the esophagus plays a key role in the digestive system, and its health directly affects overall health. Taking proper precautions and eating a healthy diet can effectively reduce the effects of acid reflux. Of course, for long-term symptoms or underlying health problems, it is essential to seek professional medical advice promptly. Are you ready to change your lifestyle to protect the health of your esophagus?
