Most people get heartburn, or acid reflux, from time to time. A small amount of stomach acid will occasionally get into the esophagus. Unlike the stomach, the esophagus, or food tube, has no protective lining. That is why you have discomfort. There is a burning sensation behind the sternum. You have a bitter taste in the mouth and throat. You may experience pain in the chest. Often this happens after eating something that does not agree with you. Perhaps you ate too much of a certain food. It may bother you for a few hours, but generally goes away on its own. This is not much to be concerned with. However, chronic heartburn can lead to a number of complications to be aware of.
It May Be More Complicated
One of the complications is GERD or Gastroesophageal reflux disease. GERD happens when reflux is frequent and more severe. The stomach valve does not work properly. It allows acid to reflux up into your throat at times. Frequent heartburn is a major symptom of GERD. Difficulty in swallowing and frequent coughing can also happen. Food may feel like it is stuck in the throat on occasion.
Why Does It Happen?
Some reasons are unknown. It is known that pregnancy and smoking can cause this condition. Obesity is another reason.
Another reason for GERD is hiatal hernia. A hernia develops above the stomach in the diaphragm. The protrusion allows acid to enter the esophagus on some occasions. It is one of the causes of reflux that causes you pain. This condition is quite common. Most of them are non-serious. The risk seems to increase with age.
Complications
Most people with GERD can lead a normal life. It can however develop into a condition called Barrett's esophagus. It is brought about by chronic untreated GERD. After a while, the esophageal cells may try to protect themselves. They try to emulate stomach lining cells. In some cases, complications can develop. Ulcers of the esophagus and narrowing may occur. In rare instances cancer could develop. It is important for people with Barrett's esophagus to see a doctor regularly. Symptoms may be similar to GERD. Diagnostic testing is the only way to know for sure if you have it.
Treatments
If your problem is minor, over the counter antacid pills may be a good option. If you have GERD or worse conditions, you should see a doctor. There are prescription medicines available to you. Other options like surgery are not usually required. There are some things you can do to help. Sleep with your head raised. Eat smaller meals. Do not stuff yourself. Eating before bedtime is not recommended. Avoid bending over when possible. Do not wear tight fitting clothes.
Final Thoughts
Acid reflux comes in many forms. Some are serious and some are not serious at all. If it is frequent, you should seek medical advice, in case it is something more complicated. There are things you can do at home to help relieve the discomfort. - 32390
It May Be More Complicated
One of the complications is GERD or Gastroesophageal reflux disease. GERD happens when reflux is frequent and more severe. The stomach valve does not work properly. It allows acid to reflux up into your throat at times. Frequent heartburn is a major symptom of GERD. Difficulty in swallowing and frequent coughing can also happen. Food may feel like it is stuck in the throat on occasion.
Why Does It Happen?
Some reasons are unknown. It is known that pregnancy and smoking can cause this condition. Obesity is another reason.
Another reason for GERD is hiatal hernia. A hernia develops above the stomach in the diaphragm. The protrusion allows acid to enter the esophagus on some occasions. It is one of the causes of reflux that causes you pain. This condition is quite common. Most of them are non-serious. The risk seems to increase with age.
Complications
Most people with GERD can lead a normal life. It can however develop into a condition called Barrett's esophagus. It is brought about by chronic untreated GERD. After a while, the esophageal cells may try to protect themselves. They try to emulate stomach lining cells. In some cases, complications can develop. Ulcers of the esophagus and narrowing may occur. In rare instances cancer could develop. It is important for people with Barrett's esophagus to see a doctor regularly. Symptoms may be similar to GERD. Diagnostic testing is the only way to know for sure if you have it.
Treatments
If your problem is minor, over the counter antacid pills may be a good option. If you have GERD or worse conditions, you should see a doctor. There are prescription medicines available to you. Other options like surgery are not usually required. There are some things you can do to help. Sleep with your head raised. Eat smaller meals. Do not stuff yourself. Eating before bedtime is not recommended. Avoid bending over when possible. Do not wear tight fitting clothes.
Final Thoughts
Acid reflux comes in many forms. Some are serious and some are not serious at all. If it is frequent, you should seek medical advice, in case it is something more complicated. There are things you can do at home to help relieve the discomfort. - 32390
About the Author:
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