Living With Reflux

Learning the Basics on Acid Reflux, GERD, Heartburn, the Disease, Symptoms, Diet, Treatment and Remedies

When the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) - a ring of muscle at the bottom of the esophagus functioning like a valve between the esophagus and stomach does not close properly and stomach contents leak back, or reflux, into the esophagus you get what is called Gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD.

The reflux acid which is regurgitated usually is made of several compounds:

• Acid
• Bile
• Pepsin

Stomach acid is used in breaking down food during the digestion process and can be a major irritant to the delicate esophagus. When "stomach acid" backflows and touches the lining of the esophagus it can cause inflammation, a burning sensation often called heartburn and even damage the esophagus lining.

Acid indigestion and occasional heartburn is common, and does not mean you have GERD. If you experience heartburn more than twice a week may be considered GERD. Beware it can eventually lead to more serious health problems.

Once a person becomes afflicted with acid reflux disease, they usually must deal with the disease for the rest of their lives. Once treatment for acid reflux syndrome starts, patients usually continue taking medication for as long a period as they want to prevent the disease from affecting them.

Our bodies do their very best prevent acid reflux from causing us any harm. During waking hours, the reflux symptom is usually remedied with a simple swallow. The saliva produced from our salivary glands contains bicarbonate or antacid, which neutralizes the effects of the stomach acid.

When we sleep, usually in a horizontal position - this causes acid to rest in the esophagus for long periods of time, the end result can lead to greater damage of the esophagus. Some sufferers use a reflux wedge as a "cure" to elevate themselves during sleeping hours to help minimize fluids from "coming up."

GERD isn't age related. Any one at any age can experience reflux symptoms including infants, children, and pregnant women.

No one knows why people get GERD but many reasons may contribute to suffering from acid reflux such as a:

• Hiatal hernia
• Smoking
• Alcohol use
• Overweight
• Pregnancy

After eating a meal is most common time you'll experience reflux symptoms, since it's at this time when reflux is most likely, diet plays an important part. Foods that can also contribute to Reflux issues include:

• Tomato-based foods, like spaghetti sauce, chili, and pizza
• Spicy foods
• Citrus fruits
• Drinks with caffeine
• Chocolate
• Fatty and fried foods
• Garlic and onions
• Mint flavorings

The defining characteristic and symptom of reflux problems would probably be heartburn followed by nausea. The pain experienced through GERD can be similar to angina, aserious heart condition. The heart is nothing to play around with, if you suspect any possible problems like experiencing heavy heartburn - go to a doctor to determine what the cause is. Possibly visit a doctor who treats diseases of the stomach and intestines called a gastroenterologist.

People afflicted with reflux may fully regurgitate fluid, whch leaves a nasty taste in the mouth and possible esophageal damage. It bears repeating, if you experience ongoing, regular heartburn and nausea symptoms - it’s important - contact a health care professional so they can assist to help you to eliminate the problem.