Depending on the severity and disease, state different therapeutic measures are necessary. These range from general as weight loss drug over to operational measures. The drugs thus reduce the secretion of stomach acid. The operational measures are necessary in very special cases, for example after failure of conservative therapies or a repeated occurrence of symptoms after healing (relapses).
The following information is based on rigorous and current scientific evidence that have shown a far-reaching benefit in the treatment. It is essential to adapt the treatment options shown here subject to certain conditions. The personal life goals and wishes of the patient play a fundamental role, as can age, severity of illness and possible co-morbidities have a decisive influence on the recommendations.
The family physician should always be sure to put on comorbidities notified and advised of any medications that are taken. The doctor will decide the appropriate treatment for the patient according to the above criteria, this form of treatment is not necessarily the newest or most expensive. The main factor is that the chosen therapy is the best choice for the person concerned. High quality of treatment is expressed not in innovation and high costs. Questions should always concerned to rectify their GP.
General principles of treatment
The first treatment goal is to reduce reflux by general measures, as well as the neutralization of back-flowing, aggressive and acidic stomach contents through medication. Proceeding should by avoiding harmful influences, such as alcohol and nicotine are strengthened, the lower esophageal sphincter function and its closure.
Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs)
Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) such as omeprazole, lansoprazole, rabeprazole or pantoprazole are the first choice for reflux esophagitis; they are used in the nichterosiven (NERD) and erosive reflux esophagitis in (ERD).
Operative Therapies
Operational measures are used when there are:
• Recurrent symptoms and complications
• Non-response to the conservative / drug therapy
• Presence of precancerous lesions (Barrett’s esophagus)