Acid reflux disease can make a person’s life almost a living nightmare unless they take the time to sit down and idetify the symptoms associated with it.
Taking the first steps to control the incidence of acid reflux in your life is an important first step which many seem reluctant to take. What Is Acid Reflux Disease?
It occurs when stomach acid, which is used for digestion purposes, continually backs up into the esophagus. The role of the LES (lower esophageal sphincter), which is situated at the bottom of the esophagus, is there to produce a barrier and when food is allowed to pass by the LES from the mouth to the stomach, it will usually close tightly.
When the door isn’t shut tightly, stomach acid can then back up into the esophagus causing an unpleasant experience for those who experience it. The problem is, unchecked, and with the esophagus continually exposed to this stomach acid, damage can occur which can lead to more serious complications. This is known as acid reflux disease and is also referred to as GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease).
Symptoms Of Acid Reflux Disease
Heartburn is the most common symptom of Acid reflux disease . Other symptoms include persistent coughing, sour taste in the mouth, difficulty swallowing, chest pain and unnaturally high incidence of belching.
What Steps Can You Take To Prevent Acid Reflux Disease?
Identify the food you consumed before the attack or the liquid intake you had. Do you wear tight fitting clothing especially around the stomach? Your doctor will be your greatest ally in getting on top of acid reflux disease.
Go over your list and review your current lifestyle. Your doctor can then suggest a plan of action which may include diet and lifestyle changes and possibly medication.
The worst thing you can do concerning Acid reflux disease is to attempt to self-medicate. Common antacids may be okay for mild heartburn sufferers but acid reflux needs more serious attention. You’ve got to realise with continued exposure to acid, your esophagus is at risk of serious damage and untreated, more serious complications such as Barrett’s esophagus could occur with an increased risk of esophagus cancer possible.
Tags: Health