Can a Weakened LES Heal? What is Acid Reflux and How to Treat It
The lower esophageal sphincter (LES) closes off the stomach to prevent acid reflux. The LES can become weakened, leading to the reflux of stomach acid into your esophagus, which is painful and potentially damaging if it happens chronically as in gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
Can the LES Heal?
Spontaneous Recovery: The lower esophageal sphincter can be strengthened by some lifestyle modifications in certain cases. The process of weight loss (if needed), dietary changes such as avoiding large meals or triggers like tomatoes and chocolate can all help with improving LES function over time12.
Medical treatment: Some people may need to take medications if their symptoms continue. The healing of the esophagus works by decreasing stomach acid production a class e.g., proton pump inhibitors (PPIs)46. But these do not strengthen the LES directly.
Surgical interventions may exist: If severe enough, the LES can be non-responsive to other medical treatments and surgery such as fundoplication are available for a more permanent solution by tightening the LES36. This surgery is generally minimally invasive and has high success rates.
Challenges of Weakened LES
Symptoms: A weak LES often causes typical symptoms of GERD, such as heartburn risk and regurgitation in addition to the fresh onset associated with dysphagia(async). These can significantly impact quality of life (QoL) and frequently require long-term management^ 25.
Complications – If chronic acid reflux is not addressed and treated appropriately, it may lead to serious complications including esophagitis or inflammation of the esophagus all the way up into Barrett’s Esophagus ultimately leading to an increased risk for developing cancer in your throat14
Finally, even if a weakened LES cannot cure itself for everyone, diet and lifestyle changes or treatments can help greatly reduce symptoms and perhaps the need to undergo these elaborate surgeries to improve quality of life. So for those with more persistent problems, surgical solutions offer a path to being free of pain.
