Acid Reflux

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Author:
Michael Russell

Having trouble with heartburn? Well, research shows that you are not the only one suffering from this condition. In fact, studies indicate that approximately 1 in every 10 adults in the United States or an alarming 10% suffer every day from this condition and the numbers are expected to rise in the near future!

The occurrence of heartburns usually denotes that the person has a condition commonly known as acid reflux. Acid reflux, medically termed as "reflux esophagitis" or "gastroesophageal reflux disease" (GERD), is a condition whereby the contents of the stomach are regurgitated or are returned back into the esophagus.

What causes acid reflux?

To understand this disease, we must be aware of how our digestive system works. As food enters the stomach, it is acted upon by the stomach acids and various digestive enzymes whose primary function is to break down the food so that the body can use it. The partially digested food, which is now acidic in nature, is then transported to the small intestine for further digestion.

However, this is not the case in patients afflicted with acid reflux. Those with this condition have a weakened lower esophageal sphincter (LES) which makes the regurgitation or passing of acidic gastric juices back from the stomach and up into the esophagus possible. In some cases, the acidic gastric contents even rise up as high as the mouth of an affected individual.

Among the factors which may contribute to the development of acid reflux are obesity, pregnancy, delayed emptying of stomach contents and the excessive intake of fatty foods. Smoking and drinking increase the body's caffeine and alcohol load which are also known causes of acid reflux.

Acid reflux is not only painful and annoying. Frequent regurgitation irritates the lining of the esophagus, which may lead to ulceration and scarring. At worst, it may even lead to the development of esophageal cancer.

What are the other symptoms associated with acid reflux?

Aside from frequent and painful heartburn, a person suffering from acid reflux may have the following symptoms:

. Regurgitation or the rising up of partially digested food in the stomach back into the esophagus or at times, even as high as the mouth
. Chest pains
. Difficulty in swallowing
. Voice becomes hoarse
. Corrosion of the dental cavities
. Asthma
. Persistent coughing while lying down
. Increased production of saliva
. Difficulty in sleeping after eating

How is acid reflux treated?

The symptoms associated with acid reflux greatly interfere with the performance of daily activities. The majority of the symptoms of this ailment bring such discomfort that the quality of life of a person with this condition is greatly affected.

The condition can last for several months. It may even last longer in cases where the condition is not treated early or not addressed properly.

In our modern society, acid reflux is usually treated by controlling the acidity of the stomach. As such, over the counter antacids such as magnesium hydroxide, aluminum hydroxide, calcium carbonate and aluminum-magnesium hydroxide are widely being used. Likewise, histamine H2 antagonists (cimetidine, ranitidine) and proton pump inhibitors (omeprazole) are also being prescribed. Some, however, swear by the effectiveness of several herbs such as licorice and aloe vera in treating this disease.

Michael Russell Your Independent guide to Acid Reflux

A Quick Note From The Publisher... If you like the article above, you may be interested in the following article which is also related to Acid Reflux... The Causes of Acid Reflux Acid reflux is a problem that plagues many Americans, causing them pain and discomfort. Commonly referred to as GERD, acid reflux is the term used to describe gastroesophageal reflux disorder. An uncomfortable and often painful condition where a person’s stomach liquid backs up or “refluxes” into his esophagus, acid reflux is the cause for pain, agitation, and discomfort in many Americans. Although many people recognize that they suffer from this chronic condition, some people don’t really take time to consider where the problem stems from. Perhaps you have already found an over-the-counter drug, a prescription medication, or even a natural remedy to ease your discomfort. The bottom line is that not everyone who suffers from this disorder is aware of the causes. One of the most common causes of acid reflux is abnormal levels of acid. It is important to know that everyone has reflux. It is common and normal. However, in patients with acid reflux, the reflux has a higher acidic content, making it painful and burning as it affects the lining of the esophagus. Another cause for acid reflux is a weakening of LES pressure or lower esophageal sphincter pressure. This is especially common in pregnant women. Combine that with the fact that the growing baby is putting new pressure on the woman’s abdomen, and it is not difficult to see why acid reflux is so common in pregnancy. In some cases, acid reflux is caused by esophageal contractions. These contractions can actually cause reflux to back up into the esophagus. This causes pain, discomfort, and irritation for patients. Although this isn’t something that can be magically cured, there are things your doctor can recommend to help you cope with the symptoms. Another reason...