'Heart burn' or acid reflux is a condition in which the liquid content of the stomach backs up into the esophagus. It can be cause by multiple factors. Because the acid backs up into the esophagus, the esophagus may be damaged. Although hydrochloric acid helps the body absorb vitamins and nutrients, it is a very strong corrosive which in turn causes the damage.

People who have suffered from acid reflux often report heartburn. The sensation is usually described as a very annoying and painful experience. Whatever the cause of your acid reflux, one thing for sure it will continue to persist in your lifetime. Usually conditions like this can be treated with plain antacids. They are generally available without a doctor's prescription and relieve the symptoms of acid indigestion and heartburn (dyspepsia).

However, if the symptoms are persistent enough, there are surgery options in the medical field to totally get away with the problem. But it entails complications and most of all its costly especially in times of financial recession. It’s the last practical option anyone can take when dealing with acid reflux disease. In an acid reflux surgical procedure, the fundus or the upper part of the stomach, is obtained and wrapped around the lower end of the esophagus, where it is then stitched into place. Thus, this helps in reinforcing the cardiac sphincter, thus, preventing regurgitation of ingested food into the esophagus.

The average cost of the surgery is around 15000-20000USD. Healing normally takes for about one to two weeks depending on your body’s ability to recuperate. Although, mortality rate is slightly lower to 2 %, there are, however, a number of side effects of the Nissen fundoplication (surgical procedure for acid reflux) which is why it is taken as the last option. Some side effects include excessive bloating, due to the gases being trapped inside the stomach, dysphagia (painful swallowing), excessive internal scarring, etc. Some people who have undergone the procedure experience post operative irritable bowel syndrome. It’s a real discomfort and it usually last for over a week. This also causes further pain and indigestion in the stomach.

After the procedure, the person should strictly follow a GERD diet. However, all said and done, whether the person will resort to surgery or not, he should decide upon taking into consideration all the pros and cons of the surgical procedure. On the lighter side, there are many natural heartburn remedies you can do at home. Nowadays, many have opted for natural methods before exploring the last available option. It has proven relief against heartburn brought about by acid reflux.

Watch this video to learn more about acid reflux surgery.