The connection between acid reflux and insurance - MindxMaster (2024)

FAQs

Is acid reflux considered a disability? ›

Yes. A student with GER or GERD has a disability if their GER or GERD substantially limits one or more of their major life activities. GER or GERD can, for example, substantially limit the operation of the digestive system, which is a major bodily function and therefore a major life activity under Section 504.

Acid reflux occurs when the sphincter muscle at the lower end of your esophagus relaxes at the wrong time, allowing stomach acid to back up into your esophagus. This can cause heartburn and other signs and symptoms.

Acid reflux and anxiety may share a close link. Some research suggests that stress and anxiety might make acid reflux symptoms worse. Anxiety and stress may also be contributing factors to acid reflux in some cases. Conversely, acid reflux can be stressful and may cause anxiety in some people.

Clinical studies have confirmed the association between psychosocial disorders and GERD. GERD can lead to anxiety and depression, in turn, psychological disorders can also lead to reflux symptoms.

Left untreated, GERD can be a lifelong disease, with symptoms ranging from mild to severe. If you're diagnosed with GERD, a doctor will first recommend lifestyle and dietary changes to see if they help keep acid from entering through the LES.

Once acid reflux starts, you can use over-the-counter medications like antacids or ranitidine to stop the symptoms fast. Home remedies like drinking milk or eating a banana may help relieve heartburn symptoms. If medications don't relieve heartburn, and the pain is very severe, you may need to get medical care.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a common condition in which the stomach contents move up into the esophagus. Reflux becomes a disease when it causes frequent or severe symptoms or injury. Reflux may damage the esophagus, pharynx or respiratory tract.

The most common cause is food that's acidic or high in fat—like citrus fruits, tomatoes, onions, chocolate, coffee, cheese, and peppermint. Spicy foods or large meals can also be the root of distress. Other sources of heartburn include aspirin or ibuprofen, as well as some sedatives and blood pressure medications.

Antacids. The oldest and best-known medicines for treating heartburn, they have remained popular because they're fast-acting, inexpensive, available without a prescription, and are safe for most people when used as directed. Maalox, Mylanta, Rolaids, and Tums are examples.

What food can neutralize stomach acid? ›

Bananas. This low-acid or alkaline fruit can help neutralize stomach acid by coating an irritated esophageal lining. And not only are bananas alkaline, they're also rich in pectin — a soluble fiber that helps keeps food flowing nicely through the digestive tract.

Acid reflux causes a burning sensation in the throat and chest. Drinking water, low fat milk, and herbal teas may help manage it. Alcohol, caffeinated drinks, and sodas may worsen symptoms. Acid reflux, or heartburn, occurs when stomach acid flows back up into a person's esophagus.

"Acid reflux may cause headaches by irritating the vagus nerve, causing a host of other symptoms as well, such as dizziness, lightheadedness, and an intense spinning or whirling sensation known as peripheral vertigo," says Dr. Mehra-Dang.

GERD can usually be controlled with medication. But if medications don't help or you wish to avoid long-term medication use, your doctor might recommend: Fundoplication. The surgeon wraps the top of your stomach around the lower esophageal sphincter, to tighten the muscle and prevent reflux.

Medical treatments and medication for GERD and anxiety

proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), such as esomeprazole (Nexium) and rabeprazole (Aciphex) selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), such as fluoxetine (Prozac) and citalopram (Celexa) benzodiazepines, such as alprazolam (Xanax) and lorazepam (Ativan)

Because GERD and acid reflux are generally managed with diet and medication, symptoms don't usually significantly interfere with your daily routine. But if you develop serious complications from GERD or you have other related digestive disorders, you may qualify for Social Security disability benefits.

It is commonly rated under “Diagnostic Code 7346, Hernia, Hiatal” under § 4.114 Schedule of ratings – digestive system. A hiatal hernia is a common cause of GERD. The VA schedule of ratings allows a disability rating for a hiatal hernia and GERD ranging from 10% to 60%, depending on the severity of symptoms.

However, if you often experience a sore throat due to allergies, acid reflux, or dry air, or if you overused your voice the prior day, there is no need to call in sick. One caveat: If you need to talk as part of your job and the sore throat has made it difficult to do so, you may want to take a day and rest.

GERD may be associated with a marked decrease in quality of life, a loss of productivity and impairment of daily activities[4]. In some patients symptoms may be severe enough to prevent the patient from going to work. The resulting decrease in working time is associated with a significant loss in productivity.