Gastroesophageal Reflux
in Multiple Sclerosis
Gastroesophageal Reflux (Heartburn)
This can occur when the lower oesophageal sphincter (LES) does not close properly after eating, allowing stomach acids to leak back, or reflux, into the oesophagus.
The presence of digestive juices in the oesophagus cause burning sensations in the chest or throat called heartburn, or acid indigestion. Heartburn which occurs more than twice per week can be considered as Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD).
In multiple sclerosis, this may be brought about by demyelisation, or lesion, of the medulla oblongata in the Vagus Nerve, or 10th Cranial Nerve.
Other causes of reflux, or heartburn, may be a hiatus hernia where the top of the stomach protrudes above the diaphragm. I have a hiatus hernia which, can be corrected with surgery but, in my case is not considered serious enough to warrant operating.
Treatments
Reflux may be treated with antacids, calcium carbonate, foaming agents which coat the oesophagus lining, H2 blockers and Proton pump inhibitors.
- Alka-Seltzer
- Maalox
- Mylanta
- Tums
- Titralac
- Gaviscon
- Tagamet
- Pepcid
- Zantac
- Omeprazole
References:
Multiple
Sclerosis Encyclopaedia
National
Digestive Diseases Information
DISCLAIMER: The content of this site does not represent a qualified medical opinion. It is simply the information amassed by an MS patient while trying to understand this condition. You should seek the advice of your medical practitioner or neurologist before trying any treatment you may read about on this site. I am not a doctor, I am a patient.
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