Acid Reflux - Is That Heartburn Or What?

By Richard H Ealom

INTRODUCTION: Acid reflux is a condition where gastric juices containing acid travel back from the stomach into the esophagus (gullet or swallowing tube). More commonly found among adults, yet, children as well as infants, can be likewise affected.

It is most often known by its symptom of "heartburn" which reportedly affects 1 out of every 10 adults in the United States and is a very serious and common problem in the world today. In severe cases, this can be very bothersome. It is treatable and you should ask your physician what treatments are available and right for you.

GERD: Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), or more commonly known as acid reflux, is a chronic condition where the esophagus gets inflamed and irritated because of the stomach's acidic contents that backflow towards the esophagus passing from the lower esophageal sphincter. It is a severe form of reflux that often causes pain, vomiting and poor weight gain.

HEARTBURN: The name of the condition given to a burning discomfort in the chest, just behind the breastbone. It is a sign of another digestive disorder, and not a disorder by itself. Following heartburn, other reported symptoms are regurgitation, bitterness within the mouth, hoarseness, wheezing, dry cough, and throat tightness as if some chunk of food is entrapped. An occasional heartburn does not necessarily mean one has GERD.

SYMPTOMS: Signs of acid reflux include: Heartburn (a burning feeling rising from the stomach or lower chest up towards the neck) and can be greatly relieved or prevented by lifestyle and dietary changes as well as the use of herbs known to promote healthy digestion.

TREATMENT: Treatment is the next step, but recognize that proper treatment can really only be utilized once a definitive diagnosis has been made. Moreover, after the esophagus has healed and treatment is ceased, the injury will return in the majority of patients within a few months. You may need to experiment with doses and drugs to find the right solution for your heartburn and GERD.

Medicinal treatment is often only needed for a short period of time although it may have to be repeated since some symptoms may come back. NEXIUM is prescribed for the treatment of frequent, persistent heartburn symptoms. However if these symptoms occur two or more days a week inspite of treatment and change in diet, you may have (GERD) also known as Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease.

CONCLUSION: Acid reflux is created by food and stomach acid coming back up from your stomach and entering your esophagus and is frequently characterized by a burning feeling in the stomach and chest area. It is a medical problem, with heartburn as a possible sign of that condition. You should also recognize that if it is left untreated overly long, you could be looking at a lifetime of dealing with it. The bottom line is that finding the appropiate cure is primarily about knowing your body and your symptoms. - 18095

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