Acid Reflux Disease and Heartburn

Acid reflux disease is a digestive disorder also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), in which the liquid content of the stomach regurgitates (backs up, or refluxes) into the esophagus due to the lower esophageal sphincter not closing correctly. This chronic disorder is serious condition because it can lead to even more serious medical conditions, including the wearing away of the esophagus.

Heartburn is a symptom of acid reflux. When stomach acid reaches the esophagus, a burning sensation, or acid indigestion, will occur, allowing the fluid to be tasted in the back of the mouth. Many people may have heartburn occasionally. In fact, more than 60 millions Americans experience heartburn at least once a month. However, if it occurs more than twice a week, you should see your doctor.

Symptoms
Causes
Treatment
Prevention

Acid Reflux Disease Symptoms

The most common symptoms of acid reflux disease are persistent heartburn and acid regurgitation. Other symptoms that may develop include the following:

• Pain in the chest
• Hoarseness in the morning
• Trouble swallowing
• Feeling like there is food stuck in the throat
• Choking feeling
• Tight feeling in throat
• Dry cough
• Bad breath
• Vomiting and nausea
• Sore throat
• Cough or wheezing
• Belching

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Acid Reflux Disease Causes

There is no one cause of acid reflux disease. However, the following factors may be the cause:

• Hiatal hernia
• Alcohol use
• Overweight/obesity
• Pregnancy
• Smoking
• Stress
• Certain types of foods, including spicy foods, citrus fruits, chocolate, caffeinated beverages, fatty and friend foods, mint flavorings, garlic and onions and tomato-based foods.

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Acid Reflux Disease Treatment

Acid reflux disease symptoms will vary from person to person. It is important to speak with your doctor for a proper diagnosis and to decide which treatment will be best for you. The following are possible acid reflux disease treatments that your doctor may recommend.

• Antacids such as Alka-Seltzer, Mylanta and Rolaids
• Foaming agents
• H₂ blockers
• Proton pump inhibitors
• Lifestyle changes
• Any combination of these

If these treatments do not help, your doctor may order further testing such as upper endoscopy or barium swallow radiograph. In addition, surgery (fundoplication) is available, but only your doctor can determine if that is the best treatment for you.

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Acid Reflux Disease Prevention

There are many things you can do that may help prevent symptoms from occurring.

• Stop eating three hours before bed
• Lose weight or maintain a healthy weight
• Do not drink alcohol
• Stop smoking
• Eat small meals
• Wear loose-fitting clothes
• Avoid foods that worsen symptoms (It is important to keep track of which foods worsen your symptoms since everyone is different.)
• Raise the head of your bed 6 to 8 inches

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If you experience any of the above symptoms, call your doctor immediately. Call 1.877.UT.CARES (1.877.882.2737) to request an appointment today!