Recognizing the Symptoms of Acid Reflux Disease
Every year millions of people all over the world
suffer from the symptoms of acid reflux disease. Many of these people
think they are simply having heartburn, which is not the case. In
actuality they are suffering from what is known as Gastro Esophageal
Reflux Disease (GERD) which is a condition where stomach acids and
digestive juices get regurgitated back into the esophagus. The esophagus
is the tube that connects the throat to the stomach, which isn't made to
counter the effects of gastric acids.
Acid reflux disease is annoying at its mildest state but left untreated
it can get progressively worse causing damage to the esophagus. This can
lead to a variety of complications such as Barrett's esophagus and even
cancer. Because of this it is important to schedule a visit with your
doctor if your acid reflux symptoms begin to occur more than twice a
week.
The three most common indications that you may be suffering from acid
reflux disease are:
1. Persistent Heartburn – While the heart is not actually burning the
sensation of heartburn sure feels like it. It is a rising, burning
sensation in the center of the chest that occurs when stomach acid
refluxes back into the esophagus. Over eating, eating something that
upsets the stomach, and stress all can cause heartburn, usually within
two hours of eating. You may also notice that symptoms worsen when lying
down or leaning forward and if they do not go away after a few hours
there is a good chance of an acid reflux disease diagnosis.
2. Bitter or Acrid Taste – This usually happens in conjunction with
heartburn but can occur alone and is a bitter taste that lingers at the
back of the throat. It is caused by the regurgitation of gastric acids
and food/drink from the stomach into the back of the throat.
3. Water Brash – This not so pleasant symptom is an excessive secretion
of saliva caused by the regurgitation of stomach acid.
While these are the three most common symptoms of acid reflux disease
there are people who suffer from its effects and do not necessarily
suffer the more common symptoms. Other signs that need to be watched for
include;
• Trouble swallowing is a symptom associated with the more advanced
stages of acid reflux.
• Chest pain that feels like a dull discomforting weight across the
chest and may occur with or without heartburn. Many times this pain can
be confused with a heart attack. Any type of chest pain does need to be
evaluated immediately by a doctor.
• Nausea that usually occurs in the morning.
• Ear, nose , and throat problems such as laryngitis, sore throat,
hoarseness, and a feeling that the throat is swollen.
• Lung and breathing issues that can include coughing, wheezing,
pneumonia, a widening and damage to the lungs air passageways, and
chronic asthma. People who have asthma may find that their asthma
symptoms worsen if they have GERD.
If you suffer from any of these or a combination of these symptoms it is
a good idea to see a doctor. He or she can make a definitive diagnosis
by looking at these symptoms of acid reflux disease and prescribe the
proper treatment regimen to control and manage this condition.
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