RETROSTALSIS Meaning and
Definition
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Retrostalsis refers to a medical term used to describe a backward or reverse movement of food or liquid from the stomach back into the esophagus, with subsequent regurgitation into the mouth. This condition is commonly associated with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), also known as acid reflux. Retrostalsis occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter, a muscular ring that separates the esophagus from the stomach, fails to close properly. As a result, stomach contents, including stomach acid, flow back up into the esophagus, leading to various uncomfortable symptoms.
Individuals experiencing retrostalsis may present symptoms such as heartburn, a burning sensation behind the breastbone, swallowing difficulties, chest pain, and the taste of acid or regurgitated food in the mouth. Chronic retrostalsis can cause inflammation and irritation of the lining of the esophagus, leading to more severe complications over time, including esophagitis, ulcers, and in rare cases, Barrett's esophagus or esophageal cancer.
Treatment for retrostalsis generally involves lifestyle modifications and medication. Lifestyle changes may include elevating the head of the bed during sleep, avoiding triggering foods or drinks, maintaining a healthy weight, and quitting smoking. Medications like proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), antacids, and H2 blockers can help reduce stomach acid production and alleviate symptoms. In cases where conservative measures fail, surgical interventions like fundoplication, which enhances the functioning of the lower esophageal sphincter, may be recommended.
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A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for RETROSTALSIS
- eetrostalsis
- detrostalsis
- fetrostalsis
- tetrostalsis
- 5etrostalsis
- 4etrostalsis
- rwtrostalsis
- rstrostalsis
- rdtrostalsis
- rrtrostalsis
- r4trostalsis
- r3trostalsis
- rerrostalsis
- refrostalsis
- regrostalsis
- reyrostalsis
- re6rostalsis
- re5rostalsis
- reteostalsis
- retdostalsis
Etymology of RETROSTALSIS
The word "retrostalsis" is a medical term derived from combining two roots: "retro" and "stalsis".
1. The prefix "retro-" is derived from the Latin word "retro", meaning "back" or "backward". In English, it is commonly used to indicate something that goes against the usual direction or position.
2. The root "stalsis" is derived from the Greek word "stalsis", meaning "contraction" or "compression". It is commonly used in medical terminology to refer to movement or contraction of certain organs or muscles.
By combining these roots, "retrostalsis" is formed, which can be understood as a medical condition or process involving the backward movement or contraction of certain organs or muscles.
