Acid Reflux

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Author:
Groshan Fabiola

Acid reflux (gastro-esophageal reflux disease) is a physiological condition that causes the content of the stomach to reflux into the esophagus and throat. Although there are many factors that contribute to the development of acid reflux, the main cause is inappropriate activity of the lower esophageal sphincter (muscular valve that seals the lower ending of the esophagus), allowing the stomach acids to reach the upper levels of the body. Additional causes of acid reflux are inappropriate diet, unhealthy lifestyle or other physical dysfunctions and conditions.

Acid reflux can become serious if it is not appropriately treated. The symptoms of acid reflux should be spotted quickly, in order to prevent the development of complications (esophageal inflammation and lesions, damage of the throat, gastro-intestinal disorders, breathing problems). The symptoms of acid reflux are easy to identify and it is best to see a physician as soon as they occur. The condition has a chronic character and usually requires ongoing treatment. For some patients, surgery is best alternative in overcoming acid reflux.

Acid reflux is very common in infants and young children. Although for most babies the symptoms of acid reflux disappear with time, in some cases the condition can persist for years, causing serious harm to the gastro-intestinal system and the esophagus. The most common symptoms of acid reflux in infants are: spitting, vomiting, coughing, irritability, discomfort when feeding and the presence of blood in feces. Other symptoms of acid reflux in babies occur if the condition is severe: pronounced difficulty swallowing, intense pain when feeding, spitting or coughing blood, vomiting blood, presence of blood in stools, problems with breathing.

Common symptoms of acid reflux in adults are: abdominal pain and discomfort (especially after meals), bad breath, bitter taste in the mouth, excessive secretion of saliva, and sleeping problems. People with acid reflux can also develop apnea, a sleeping disorder manifested through respiratory insufficiency.

The extended symptoms of acid reflux in adults are: difficulty swallowing, chest burn and aching, poor appetite, nausea, presence of blood in vomit and stools, throat inflammation and pain, breathing difficulties. If the symptoms of acid reflux become very intense it is a clear sign of aggravation. Acid reflux can cause serious damage at the level of the esophagus, due to its constant exposure to stomach gastric acid. Acid reflux can cause inflammation, swelling and even scarring of the esophageal soft tissue. It is very important to pay attention to the symptoms of acid reflux, and act quickly in overcoming the condition. If acid reflux occurs frequently, it can cause serious complications.

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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... An Introduction to Acid Reflux Disease Acid reflux disease, also known as Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease or GERD, afflicts millions of people. Many suffer from an occasional bout with heartburn, but acid reflux disease, as a diagnosis, should only be made if the heartburn causes impediments to your lifestyle due to severe, chronic discomfort over prolonged periods of time. Usually, if you suffer from heartburn 2 or more times per week for at least 12 weeks, there’s a good chance that your diagnosis would be GERD. Unfortunately, no one knows exactly what causes acid reflux disease, but there is an ample amount of information available at your doctor’s office and on the Internet. The good news is that acid reflux disease is a highly manageable condition, though it can lead to potentially serious, chronic conditions. Many avenues are available with regard to treatment options. The most common options recommended include lifestyle changes, medical treatments, stress management, and/or a combination of all strategies. What is Acid Reflux Disease? Acid reflux disease is a chronic condition in which stomach acid washes back up onto the esophagus, causing severe discomfort. Stomach acid burns the esophagus lining due to a relaxed lower esophageal sphincter (LES). The LES acts as a valve between your stomach and the esophagus. The valve is designed to open and allow food into the stomach, and then close, protecting the esophagus from acids. However, if the LES is not closing properly, acid rushes or refluxes upward, coating the esophagus, and causes a burning sensation. Remember that it’s normal to suffer from acid reflux (heartburn) every once and awhile. It’s only acid reflux disease when it’s a chronic condition, happening frequently and for long periods of time. If you are unsure, don’t...