Reflux is a common gastrointestinal issue that affects millions globally, including a significant number of Australians. Characterised by symptoms like heartburn, regurgitation, and discomfort, reflux can significantly impact one's quality of life. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and acupuncture offer unique perspectives and remedies that could complement or serve as alternatives to conventional Western medical treatments. This article aims to explore the nature of reflux, its various forms, symptoms, and prevalence in Australia, alongside how TCM and acupuncture can play a role in treating this pervasive condition.
What is Reflux?
Reflux, commonly known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), occurs when stomach acid frequently flows back into the tube connecting your mouth and stomach (oesophagus). This backwash (acid reflux) can irritate the lining of your oesophagus, leading to discomfort and potential complications.
Types of Reflux
Reflux can be categorised primarily into two types:
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): This chronic form occurs when reflux symptoms are frequent and severe enough to impact daily life and possibly damage the oesophagus.
Laryngopharyngeal Reflux (LPR): Often called silent reflux, LPR occurs when acid from the stomach makes its way into the throat, potentially affecting the voice box and causing symptoms distinct from GERD.
Symptoms of Reflux
Symptoms of reflux can vary but commonly include:
Burning sensation in the chest (heartburn), often after eating, which might be worse at night
Chest pain
Difficulty swallowing
Regurgitation of food or sour liquid
Sensation of a lump in your throat
Chronic cough
Laryngitis
New or worsening asthma
Prevalence in Australia
Reflux affects a significant portion of the Australian population, with studies suggesting that up to 20% of adults experience reflux symptoms at least once a week. Such prevalence highlights the need for effective management strategies.
Causes of Reflux
1. Lower Esophageal Sphincter (LES) Dysfunction and Hiatal Hernia
The LES is crucial for preventing backward flow of stomach contents. If weak or improperly functioning, it allows acid reflux, causing irritation and discomfort.
2. Pregnancy
Hormonal and physical changes, including relaxation of the LES due to the hormone progesterone and increased abdominal pressure from the growing fetus, heighten reflux risk.
3. Dietary Habits
Foods and drinks like fatty foods, chocolate, caffeine, spicy foods, citrus, and carbonated drinks can trigger reflux by increasing acid production or relaxing the LES.
4. Obesity
Excess weight increases abdominal pressure, forcing stomach contents back into the esophagus, especially after large meals or in tight clothing.
5. Smoking and Alcohol Use
Both habits can weaken the LES, leading to increased reflux incidents.
6. Medications
Certain drugs, including NSAIDs, muscle relaxants, and some blood pressure medications, can exacerbate reflux by relaxing the LES or irritating the esophagus.
By addressing these root causes through lifestyle modifications, medical treatment, and holistic approaches such as acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine, individuals suffering from reflux can find significant relief and improve their quality of life.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Understanding of Reflux
In TCM, reflux is often viewed as a disorder of the Stomach. It is typically characterised by a disharmony or imbalance in the body that leads to the reversal of the natural downward flow of stomach acid, causing it to ascend instead. This disharmony can be due to factors such as:
Dietary habits: Consuming spicy, greasy, or cold foods that disturb the stomach.
Emotional distress: Stress and emotional turmoil can disrupt liver health, which in turn affects stomach fluids and acids.
Lifestyle factors: Irregular eating patterns and lack of sleep can contribute to this imbalance.
Benefits of Acupuncture and Chinese Herbal Medicine for Treating Reflux
Acupuncture
Acupuncture involves inserting fine needles into specific points on the body to rebalance the flow of gastric fluids and acids. For reflux, acupuncture may help:
Strengthen the digestive system
Regulate stomach acid secretion
Enhance the esophageal sphincter's ability to function properly
Reduce stress, which is often a significant contributor to digestive disorders
Chinese Herbal Medicine
Herbs in TCM are selected to help harmonise the stomach, stop the ascent of stomach acid, and clear any heat or dispel dampness within the body, depending on the individual's specific symptoms and underlying disharmony.
Effectiveness of Acupuncture for Reflux
Research on acupuncture for reflux shows promising results. Studies indicate that acupuncture can significantly improve symptoms of heartburn and regurgitation in GERD patients. A systematic review has suggested that acupuncture improves esophageal function and maintains lower esophageal sphincter pressure, which helps mitigate reflux symptoms effectively.
Natural Treatments
Beyond acupuncture and herbal medicine, managing reflux naturally includes lifestyle and dietary changes such as:
Eating smaller, more frequent meals
Avoiding trigger foods (spicy, fatty, or very acidic foods)
Maintaining a healthy weight
Elevating the head during sleep
Reducing stress through yoga, meditation, or Tai Chi
Conclusion
Reflux is a common condition affecting many Australians, significantly impacting quality of life. Traditional Chinese Medicine and acupuncture offer valuable alternatives or complements to conventional treatments, emphasising a holistic approach to healing and symptom management. At AcuLife Acupuncture, we assess individual health needs to tailor treatments that address not only the symptoms but also the root causes of reflux, fostering long-term health and well-being.
To learn what we can do for you, Contact our team today👇
AcuLife
(02) 4620 9798
5 Stewart St, Harrington Park
Bookings: www.aculife.com.au