Obesity increases one’s risk of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
If you are obese, you may be at greater risk of developing gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a condition that causes uncomfortable reflux. When GERD occurs, the contents of the stomach can move back into the oesophagus — this, in turn, can lead to an unpleasant burning sensation in the chest, neck and throat, as well as difficulty swallowing, bad breath and even nausea. The good news is that if you suffer from both obesity and GERD, weight loss surgery can help to alleviate the symptoms of the condition. Gastric bypass surgery in particular often helps to resolve GERD — read on to find out more about the link between bariatric surgery and GERD…
What is the connection between GERD and weight loss surgery?
The ring of muscle that is located at the bottom of the oesophagus is known as the lower oesophageal sphincter (LES). This muscle connects the oesophagus and the stomach and, in normal circumstances, stays closed in order to protect the oesophagus from acids in the stomach. Every time that you eat, the LES opens to allow food through.
If, however, the LES is weak or not functioning as it should, it is possible for the acidic contents of the stomach to move from the stomach into the oesophagus — this often leads to reflux. GERD occurs in cases of chronic acid reflux. Individuals who are overweight or obese tend to be more likely to suffer from GERD than those who are at a healthy body weight.
One of the most common types of weight loss surgery, gastric bypass involves dividing the stomach into two pouches — a small upper pouch, and a larger lower pouch. The small intestine is also divided and connected to both of these pouches. This type of procedure often helps to alleviate the symptoms of GERD because it changes the amount of pressure that is placed on the LES. It also reduces acid production in the stomach, and decreases oesophageal reflux. The procedure also promotes weight loss, which often resolves GERD in time.
How can GERD be managed after weight loss surgery?
Sustainable and healthy weight loss can go a long way towards alleviating the symptoms of GERD, but there are some other lifestyle changes that can help to treat the issue. It is advisable that you avoid eating meals for at least three hours before bedtime, and that you stick to a balanced diet.
Be sure to avoid or limit foods and drinks that tend to exacerbate your symptoms. Some of the most common culprits include high fat foods like cheese, butter, chips and creamy sauces; spicy foods; citrus fruits like oranges, lemons and limes; garlic and onions; tomatoes; and acidic beverages like alcohol, coffee, tea, carbonated soft drinks and citrus juices.
Why is it worth treating GERD?
Besides its uncomfortable symptoms, GERD can lead to a number of other health problems. These include chronic coughing; dental erosion; asthma-like symptoms and oesophagitis, a condition that occurs when the oesophagus is irritated or inflamed.
If you have GERD and are a suitable candidate for weight loss surgery, a bariatric procedure could improve your overall health considerably.
How can we help?
Dr Stephen Watson offers a range of weight loss procedures, including gastric bypass. If you are concerned about your weight and its impact on your overall health, we encourage you to come in for a consultation so that Dr Watson can explain your treatment options to you and let you know how he can help to improve your wellbeing.
As well as gastric bypass, Dr Watson also offers a range of other surgeries — for more information about the range of bariatric procedures that Dr Watson offers, please have a look here.
If you would like to arrange a consultation with Dr Watson, please get in touch here or give us a call on (08) 6311 7578.
