Scleroderma
Several factors cause acid reflux to develop. But some research showed that acid reflux could be a symptom of scleroderma, an autoimmune disease. Scleroderma attacks the connective tissues in the body. Conversely, several people with scleroderma experience acid reflux. The condition is due to tissue scarring because the food is slow to move along the digestive tract. The lagging activity sometimes prevents the proper closing of the LES.
Scleroderma treatment follows the same strategies in easing acid reflux, such as avoiding alcohol and trigger foods. In addition, losing weight, eating smaller meals, and not lying down right after a meal will help.
The disease occurs due to the overproduction and accumulation of collagen in the gastrointestinal tract and the skin. When it appears in the gastrointestinal tract, collagen replaces the nerves and muscles that make up the wall of the organs, eventually stiffening the wall, and causing the loss of contractions in the gastrointestinal tract.
Scleroderma’s common feature is esophageal dysfunction. If not treated immediately, the frequent acid reflux could lead to conditions such as Barrett’s esophagus, esophageal strictures, esophageal ulceration, esophagitis, or worse, esophageal cancer.
