DIAGNOSIS
Symptoms of bile reflux and acid reflux are almost the same. To diagnose Bile reflux, your doctor might perform the following:
- Endoscopy – This specific test aims to detect ulcers and inflammation in the stomach. A tissue sample from the stomach may undergo laboratory test to know if the patient has Barrett’s esophagus or esophageal cancer.
- Ambulatory Acid Tests – This would help to know if the symptoms are brought by acid reflux. However, it does not specifically diagnose bile reflux.
- Esophageal Impedance- This method measures gas and acid reflux of stomach content into the esophagus. It will determine if the reflux is acid or bile.
TREATMENT
The treatment depends on the cause of the reflux. They may include:
- Medication – A drug called Ursodeoxycholic acid may help the bile to flow more easily through your body. However, this drug may cause some side effects like diarrhea. On the other hand, Bile acid sequestrants are drugs that disrupt the circulation of the bile.
- Natural Remedy – Maintaining a healthy diet and lifestyle may help avoid bile reflux. Apples and apple cider vinegar may also help in bile reflux.
- Surgery – This option is for severe cases of bile reflux. Surgical options may include:
- Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass – This method creates a new connection to the small intestine. This would keep the bile from draining into the stomach.
- Surgery that Adhere or remove blockage in the Bowel – This process may also include removing a damaged part of the intestine.
- Chemotherapy or Radiotherapy – This treatment would be an option if the bile reflux is caused by colorectal cancer.
PREVENTION
Having a healthy lifestyle would be the best way to avoid bile reflux. Aside from eating the right food and having exercise, you can consider the following:
- Avoid drinking too much alcohol
- Refrain from lifting heavy objects (to avoid hernia)
Visit the doctor for a regular check-up. Get Colonoscopy or other test especially if you are already 50 years old and above. This may help see any abnormal changes in the colon that may result to bigger health problems.
