Digestive System Disorders

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Acid Reflux/Heartburn

What Is Acid Reflux Disease?

Acid Reflux Disease, which is also known as Gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD, is a common chronic problem, where gastric acids reflux from the stomach into the esophagus. This reflux is due to the weakening of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). This acid causes painful and uncomfortable symptoms. This acid reflux can lead to several serious conditions such as respiratory infections, ulcers, and even esophageal cancer. Even though there are no known causes for acid reflux, there are several contributing factors that may weaken or relax the lower esophageal sphincter, allowing acid reflux. Among those factors are:

  • Obesity
  • Alcohol and tobacco use
  • Antihistimines and other medications
  • Eating large meals or soon before bedtime
  • Other conditions such as pregnancy, rapid weight gain, Hiatal hernia or diabetes
  • A diet consisting of fried or fatty foods, garlic and onions and chocolate, citrus foods, tomatoes, spicy foods and mint flavorings as well as beverages containing caffeine.

How Do I Know That I Have Acid Reflux Disease?

The most common symptom of GERD is persistent heartburn. Heartburn is a painful burning sensation that you might experience that occurs in the lower esophagus, behind the sternum. This symptom is experienced in connection with lying on your back or on your right side, heavy lifting, after a large meal, and bending over. Other symptoms of reflux include:

  • Regurgitation of acid into the throat while bending over or sleeping
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Asthma, hoarseness and dental erosion due to the acidic juices making their way to the throat and mouth as well as the air passages into the lungs
  • Chest Pain

What Are The Symptoms Of Acid Reflux In Children?

Symptoms of Reflux in newborns and young infants are more obvious than those in older infants and children since infants and newborns are more likely to vomit the acid up. In older infants and children, the symptoms are more subtle. They suffer the same symptoms as adults; however, they may present other symptoms, including:

  • Loss of appetite
  • Weight loss
  • Apnea
  • Posturing episodes that are often mistaken for seizures
  • A chronic cough or recurrent pneumonia
  • Recurrent abdominal pain
  • Failure to thrive
  • Infant arching his or her back while feeding
  • Irritability
Many people can relieve their reflux symptoms with simple lifestyle changes and habit changes. Often losing some weight, changing diet, or simply changing one's sleeping position may help. Other people may need to see their physician. It is advised that you see your doctor if you experience the symptoms of acid reflux frequently or if the symptoms interfere with work, sleep, or other activities. If you are suffering from other symptoms such as difficulty swallowing, vomiting blood, dark and tarry stools, or severe chest pain or pressure, especially if it radiates to your arm, neck, or back, go to your nearest emergency room at your local hospital immediately. If you are using a self care measure, make sure your physician is aware of it so they can monitor how you use them and how well these measures work.

***DISCLAIMER***
This site is meant only to provide information and resources about digestive system disorders. It is not meant to diagnose any digestive problems. If you suspect you may have some digestive disorder, then please, see your doctor, and get his professional opinion and advice.