The acid reflux medication industry is a billion-dollar industry. Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), a class of acid reflux medication, are one of the most commonly prescribed medications in the world. In 2019, the global market for PPIs was valued at approximately $11.6 billion and is expected to reach over $16 billion by 2026, according to a report by Data Bridge Market Research.
The high demand for acid reflux medication can be attributed to the high prevalence of acid reflux and related conditions. It is estimated that up to 20% of the US population experiences acid reflux symptoms on a weekly basis. PPIs and other acid reflux medications are often prescribed to manage symptoms and prevent complications such as esophageal ulcers and Barrett's esophagus.
However, big pharma may not want you know that there have been concerns about the long-term use of PPIs and their potential side effects, such as increased risk of kidney disease, bone fractures, and infections. As a result, there has been a growing interest in alternative treatments for acid reflux, such as lifestyle modifications and surgical interventions like the double jaw surgery.
Acid reflux, also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), occurs when the stomach acid travels back up the esophagus, leading to a burning sensation and discomfort. The condition is usually caused by a weakened or dysfunctional lower esophageal sphincter (LES), the muscle that connects the stomach to the esophagus. While acid reflux is commonly associated with the stomach and esophagus, recent studies have shown that it can also affect the small airways in the lungs. The small airways, also known as bronchioles, are the tiny branches that carry air deep into the lungs. When acid reflux affects these airways, it can lead to a condition known as laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR).
LPR is a type of acid reflux that occurs when the stomach acid travels up the esophagus and reaches the throat and voice box. When the acid reaches the small airways, it can irritate the delicate tissues and cause inflammation. This inflammation can then lead to a range of symptoms, including coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness.
Custom double jaw surgery is a surgical procedure that can help cure acid reflux that is caused by small airways. The surgery involves repositioning the upper and lower jaws to widen the airway and improve the flow of air to the lungs. The surgery can also help to improve the function of the LES, reducing the risk of acid reflux.
Researchers found that patients who underwent double jaw surgery experienced significant improvements in their LPR symptoms, including a reduction in coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. There seems to be no shortage of ailments that can be cured by widening the airway. Improved oxygenation to the lungs and organs can improve the body where most haven't imagined. Thanks to new technologies and the techniques employed by AOS, double jaw surgery is more accessible, quicker, and less invasive than ever.
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