The summer heat worsens the symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux, a pathology that concerns almost one Italian out of 4. The hot temperatures of the period, which can cause dehydration and slower digestion, but also the change of food habits during the holidays can help increase intensity and frequency of stomach burning. A problem, this, addressed during the second Congress “Hot Topics in Functional Digestive Surgery Meeting”, promoted by the Hospital Buon Consiglio Fatebenefratelli of Naples and by the Italian Unit Society of Colon-Procstology (SIUCP), underway in Naples.
“This disorder – he explains Adolfo Renziresponsible for the operating unit of functional diseases of the esophagus and the colorectal of the Hospital Buon Consiglio Fatebenefratelli of Naples – occurs in the presence of alterations in the functionality of the cardiacs, that is, the valve between esophagus and stomach, and of an Iiatale hernia, a condition in which a part of the stomach dates back through the diaphragm, a muscle that separates the thorax from the abdomen, in the space normally occupied. from the esophagus. Incorrect nutrition and obesity also increase abdominal pressure, facilitating reflux. “The summer canic can exacerbate the symptoms of reflux in different ways.” First of all, favoring dehydration – underlines the expert -. An insufficient supply of water leads to a reduced dilution of gastric acids, increasing their acidity. To this are added the changes in food habits: in the summer there is often more spicy, oily and cold foods, which can trigger acid reflux. Furthermore, high temperatures can slow down digestion, causing swelling and acidity. Finally, with the increase in sweating and loss of electrolytes, the functionality of the stomach can be compromised, causing an acid accumulation “.
A decalogue to prevent “flames” in the stomach
It is possible to reduce the risk that the symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux worsen in the summer, and not only, following a series of advice and precautions. Once diagnosed, the initial treatment of reflux involves the reduction of body weight and the correction of eating habits, which exclude fatty or fried foods, tomatoes, citrus fruits, raw onion, garlic, chocolate, mint, coffee, black tea, carbonated drinks, alcohol, aged cheeses, pushed and spicy spices. Experts advise to eat small and frequent meals slowly, and to limit carbonated drinks and alcohol. “It is essential that people are aware of how summer habits can influence their digestive health – says Renzi. Hydration and a careful diet are crucial to manage seasonal acidity, while for patients with chronic reflux or severe surgery represents an important and often decisive treatment option”. After eating, it is not recommended to lie down. “It is good that the patient maintains a posture erected for at least 2-3 hours after meals to prevent the contents of the stomach from going back. If the symptoms worsen at night, lifting the head of the bed can help prevent night reflux,” adds Renzi. Clothing can also affect the burning. Dresses too tight around life can increase abdominal pressure, favoring reflux.
No to “do it yourself”
“If the symptoms are serious or persist, it is good to contact a doctor for adequate diagnosis and treatment. If necessary, proton pump inhibitors are effective, but must be taken only under medical supervision,” underlines Renzi. However, for more serious or refractory cases to medical therapy, modern surgical techniques offer effective, personalized and potentially definitive solutions. A careful diagnosis is able to determine exactly the causes of reflux and the choice of surgical technique depends on it.
Surgery for reflux
“There are several options available today – specifies Renzi -. The most traditional is the Fundoplicatio according to Nissen, in which the bottom of the stomach is enveloped around the esophagus to create an anti -report ‘sleeve’ effect. It offers good results in the control of symptoms and in the management of post -operative dysphagia, a frequent complication”. In some Italian centers, the technology of the magnetic esophageal sphincter is adopted. “A ring of titanium beads – adds the specialist – is positioned in laparoscopy around the lower esophageal sphincter. Thanks to a magnetic attraction effect, a pressure area is created that allows the passage of food but blocks reflux. The advantages: greater standardization of the minor post -operative dysphagia procedure”. Among the most recent and innovative options there is the Reflux Stop, a silicone device as large as a one euro coin, always implanted in laparoscopy. “The device – concludes Renzi – restores the normal function of the esophageal sphincter without compressing it, avoiding the side effects of standard surgical approaches, allowing faster resignation. All these surgical innovations offer patients personalized and lasting solutions, significantly improving the quality of life”.
