Friday, May 6, 2011

Acid Reflux Symptoms

Acid reflux symptoms are due to a condition in which the content of the stomach backs up or regurgitates back into the esophagus. This is known as refluxing. Sometimes this can damage the esophagus by inflaming it. The liquid that refluxes often contains acid and pepsin. The enzyme that starts digestion is called pepsin. Acid reflux is also known as GERD which stands for Gastro esophageal reflux disease.

The most common symptoms:

Heartburn- Heartburn is most often a burning pain that that radiates from the middle of the chest. This is caused by the nerves being stimulated in the esophagus. This burning can be felt as high as the neck. Heartburn can also feel very much like a heart attack. The symptoms are very similar. The pain can be very sharp and painful. Pressure can be felt in the neck as well as radiate into the back. Acid reflux is mostly experienced after the so it is natural that heartburn is as well. Lying down will exacerbate the symptoms because the gravity will not help mitigate the reflux and acid will not stay in the stomach.

Regurgitation- When liquid refluxes into the mouth this is known as regurgitation. Most times the liquid is a small quantity and doesn’t escape the lower esophagus. Sometimes this regurgitation contains food. This can reflux into the upper esophagus and can be felt and tasted in the back of the mouth. This is very acidy tasting and will almost always be accompanied by a sour look. When this reaches the mouth it can damage the enamel on the teeth and cause dental problems.

Nausea- Nausea is an uncommon symptom acid reflux. When a sufferer of acid reflux does experience nausea it will come back and can be frequent and potentially severe to include vomiting. Whenever someone experiences unexplained nausea, acid reflux is one the first conditions or diseases that is suspected.

These are the most common symptoms for acid reflux without complications. There are a host of other symptoms that come with acid reflux with complications. Complications can include ulcers, pneumonia, infections of the sinus, Barrett’s Esophagus, inflammation of the effected areas, strictures, coughs and asthma.

There are some very effective treatments for acid reflux. It is worth trying several until you find one that is effective in managing the condition. The discomfort is real and painful. Try doctor approved medications, therapies, treatments, and lifestyle changes until you hit on the right combination.

The symptoms of acid reflux are uncomfortable and can be downright scary and dangerous. Some of the most common symptoms of GERD are also symptoms of much more serious diseases and should not be dismissed.

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