subject: Things You Need To Be Acquainted With And Understand In Relation To Acid Reflux [print this page] You awake in the middle of the night and your throat is burning. Your stomach is upset and it there is pain in your chest. You can taste the burning in your mouth. What has happened? Most likely you ate something that triggered heartburn, or acid reflux. Maybe you ate too much of your favorite dish? Your esophagus is burning because stomach acid has splashed onto it. It will hurt for a few hours and you will feel better in the morning. However, if it happens several nights a week and continues it could be a more serious condition. Here are some things to consider.
More Than Frequent Heartburn
Gastroesophageal reflux disease is commonly referred to as GERD. GERD is heartburn that is frequent and becomes problematic to everyday life. Stomach acid reaches the food tube from the sphincter muscle. It acts as a valve that opens to receive food. Then it closes to shut off acid from washing back into the throat. GERD patients may have frequent heartburn. However they may also develop a cough and have problems swallowing at times. Food may seem to stick in the throat.
Causes of GERD
Overweight people are more prone to GERD. Pregnant women may also develop it. Smokers also have a higher risk. Hiatal hernia is a common cause of frequent heartburn. In this condition the stomach extends through the diaphragm, allowing acid to leak. Hiatal hernias are quite common. The older you get, the better the chance it will develop. Most of these hernias are not considered a serious condition.
More Serious Issues
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.
Dealing With Reflux
Treatment of heartburn, GERD, hiatal hernia, and Barrett's esophagus, are similar. They all involve ways to keep acid from splashing into the esophagus. Eating smaller meals is a recommended method. Trying to lose weight is also advised. People with frequent heartburn might try elevating their head when they sleep. Also, do not eat before bedtime. For infrequent heartburn, antacids may work just fine. For more frequent, your doctor can prescribe medication that may help.
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.
