Acid reflux disease is also known as gastro esophageal reflux GERD disease. Occurs when the acid content of stomach back into the esophagus or esophageal and possibly in the mouth. Although in itself it is not necessarily serious, it may be a warning sign of conditions most serious, including esophageal cancer which is one of the least curable of all cancers. Therefore, it is important to be aware of the symptoms of acid reflux disease, so it can be diagnosed and treated as soon as possible.
The most common cause of acid reflux disease is a flaw in the role of the esophageal sphincter muscles. The sphincter is a group of muscle fiber that normally separates in the esophagus from the stomach. If not closed properly, liquids and foods can return from the stomach into the esophagus. Factors of lifestyle that can lead to an increased risk of this occurring include smoking, too much alcohol, overweight and over-indulgence in enriched or fatty foods.
The most common and well known of acid reflux disease symptom is heartburn, that most people experience at one time or another. This is a burning pain or discomfort in chest, possibly moving up in the throat. It is worse at night or after a heavy meal or taking drinks fizzy. Occasional heartburn is nothing to worry about, but if you have chronic or persistent heartburn without a doubt should check for GERD. However, despite being the most common symptom of heartburn, it is possible to have the disease without it.
The most common symptom is spitting up, which is actually increasing in the throat or mouth stomach acid. Another common symptom, which may or may not be present, is dysphagia or difficulty to swallow solid food. Sufferers often have a feeling that there is a blockage in the front of the neck where getting stuck food. This can also cause difficulty in controlling the saliva in the mouth.
Less frequent and other symptoms of acid reflux disease include (sick of feeling) of nausea and vomiting, particularly vomiting of blood. This can be a symptom of conditions other very serious and should be immediately checked. Other possible symptoms include hoarseness or change in voice, persistent hiccups, a sensation of bloating, burping or I burp and persistent throat pain. All of these individually can be considered as not particularly serious, or they may be symptomatic of other conditions, but if all or most of them are produced together, acid reflux disease is the most likely explanation.
If you experience the symptoms of acid reflux disease only from time to time, is probably not too concerned by. Probably find relief taking antacid medications and reducing the consumption of fatty foods and alcohol. However, if you have two or more times per week, or if they are very serious, it is time to see your doctor to order more tests.
Related entries:
What is acid reflux symptoms?Symptoms of heartburn and reflux
