Esophageal Cancer and Acid Reflux

Esophageal cancer and acid reflux have a close relation to each other as acid reflux is said to be the precursor of esophageal cancer. It has been found out that by limiting the incidents of acid reflux and by creating a healthy lifestyle it is possible to prevent the incidence of esophageal cancer in people. Since esophagus acts as a connecting hollow tube between stomach and mouth, acid reflux caused in the stomach can destroy the cell lining of esophagus resulting in barrett's esophagus and then causing esophageal cancer.

Acid reflux is commonly called as heartburn and happens in the lower region of the esophagus sphincter. The sphincter acts as a valve between the stomach region and the esophagus that when it does not close properly, it would result in permitting the contents of the stomach like bile, undigested food and acids enter the esophagus's lower region. This especially can happen after consuming food. When this condition stays for a longer period it results in ulceration and inflammation of esophagus resulting in esophageal cancer.

Even though acid reflux might not be the primary cause of esophageal cancer it can add up with the risk factors like smoking habit, alcohol consumption, obesity, overeating and so on of esophagel cancer. Even a diet scarce in fresh vegetables and fruits are known to enhance the esophageal cancer risk. Men above sixty years of age are more susceptible than younger men and women. Another important risk factor of esophageal caner is said to be the human papilloma virus or HPV. Some pre existing health disorders like achalasia and tylosis too can make esophageal cancer risky.

According to thoracic surgeons esophageal cancer symptoms include unexplained loss of weight, pain in throat, hard to swallow food, burning feeling felt in the chest region, cough of chronic nature, acid reflux or indigestion, blood present in stools, vomiting with or without blood.

Tests that are used to diagnose the presence of esophageal cancer and acid reflux can include barium swallow, x rays of stomach and esophagus, CT scan, stomach and so on. Some possible treatment options are surgery, photodynamic therapy, radiation therapy and other alternative treatment methods.

Prevention of acid reflux can reduce the incidence of esophageal cancer in persons. Doctors suggest that persons who feel that they are susceptible to acid reflux need to eat meals of smaller size, walk after consuming meals, make use of antacids regularly, should avoid reclining after consuming food and eat meals at least five hours before they go to sleep. Practicing distressing techniques, meditation, yoga and so on too can reduce the incidence of acid reflux. Most important of all, persons who experience acid reflux should avoid foods which can cause irritation of the digestive system such as citrus fruits, tomatoes and spices and condiments.

Natural Remedies:

There are certain natural remedies that offer a promising cure for esophageal cancer. Along with the natural remedies and a well-researched different diet pattern, a few simple adjustments to your lifestyle can make a huge difference to your efforts for prolonging the life for several years. You can increase your chances of surviving esophagus cancer now by trying these proven natural remedies discussed here