Dr. Temp Patterson Reveals Tips for Beating Gastroesophageal Reflux

BURLEY, Idaho, June 22, 2018 (Newswire.com) - BURLEY, Idaho, June 22, 2018 (Newswire) - "This causes irritation and swelling of these structures which results in symptoms such as heartburn, chest pain, upper abdominal pain, difficulty swallowing, and hoarseness," explains Dr. Temp Patterson, an otolaryngologist from Burley, Idaho.

A surgical subspecialty within medicine, otolaryngology deals specifically with conditions of the ear, nose, and throat, as well as related structures of the head and neck.

Around 40 percent of U.S. adults are believed to be affected by varying degrees of gastroesophageal reflux. Aside from regular medication, both over-the-counter and prescribed, according to Dr. Patterson, there are also a number of other effective remedies. These include consuming smaller meals, stopping smoking, and maintaining your ideal weight.

Dr. Patterson explains that treatment of acid reflux involves taking measures to allow the healing of the damaged membranes of the swallowing pathways. "The goal," he suggests, "is to keep stomach acid and the irritating substances out of the esophagus and throat."

Of stopping smoking, Dr. Temp Patterson notes, "Certain chemicals in tobacco cause relaxation of the muscle between the stomach and the esophagus, allowing acid to spill upward into the throat."

"For smokers, even just decreasing how much you smoke may help," he adds.

In addition to maintaining an ideal weight, which will reduce the amount of pressure which is constantly placed on the stomach, the doctor also recommends avoiding meals before bedtime, and any foods which may exacerbate symptoms.

"Spicy and fatty foods should be avoided, along with juices such as orange and tomato, as well as chocolate, coffee, tea, and alcohol," Dr. Patterson continues, explaining that these are all examples of food and drink known to cause acid reflux.

Another suggestion from Dr. Patterson is to explore bed blocks. "Elevate the head of your bed 4-6 inches with blocks, known as bed blocks. Using extra pillows is not a good substitute for proper bed blocks, although foam wedges can be helpful as an alternative," he adds.

"With each of the above, you may not get immediate relief, but don't give up, and allow any given method adequate time to work!" the doctor emphasizes.

"Remember," Dr. Patterson further adds, wrapping up, "these are permanent solutions, not temporary measures, and should be continued even once symptoms improve in order to allow for long-term benefits."

To explore the Symptoms and Causes of a Sore Throat, you can find more here.

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