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WHAT IS ACID REFLUX DISEASE?

Posted by naila Friday, January 7, 2011

Gastroesophageal reflux disease(GERD) or Acid Reflux Disease is a common stomach disorder where the acids from the stomach are coming up into the esophagus. It is commonly caused by different changes in the area between the stomach and the esophagus. This includes the abnormal activities in the lower esophageal sphincter, hiatal hernia or impaired expulsion of gastric reflux from the esophagus.

The usual symptom for this disease is heartburn. The symptom can be temporary or can be a prolonged condition depending from case to case basis.

Laryngopharyngeal reflux or commonly called extraesophageal reflux disease is another type of acid reflux. This causes the upper respiratory and laryngeal areas to produce heartburn which are also medically known as silent reflux.

GERD can be difficult to diagnose in children and infants and basically has the same symptoms with the adults. Below are some of the most common symptoms of acid reflux in adults.


  • Regurgitationimage of the man having acid reflux
  • Trouble, pain and difficulty in swallowing
  • Heartburn
  • Nausea
  • Excessive salivation
  • Chest pain
Acid reflux can also cause damage in the esophagus area which includes esophagitis reflux, strictures on the esophagus, Barret's esophagus and esophageal adenocarcinoma (cancer type). Once the esophagus was injured, it can cause another symptoms such as chronic cough, laryngitis, asthma, erosion of dental enamel, sinusitis and other dental problems.

To be able to accurately diagnose any GERD types of disease, a detailed historical knowledge must be obtained. Thorough research and examinations which includes Esophageal pH monitoring, X-rays, esophageal manometry and esophagogastroduodenoscopy are needed for concrete diagnosis and proper treatment.

Treatments for GERD involves the usual medications, surgery and total lifestyle change. Foods that causes acid reflux must be avoided permanently. Avoiding eating two hours before bedtime can lessen the risks of having acid reflux.

Smoking are one big factor that causes acid reflux. It damage the effectiveness of the lower esophageal sphincter competence which leads the top of the stomach open for possible vomiting. Antacids can help reduce gastric acidity and must be taken before meals.

Surgical treatments includes Nissen Fundoplication and Vagotomy. Nissen Fundoplication involves the upper part of the stomach were it is wrapped around the lower esophageal sphincter to help make it more tight and prevent acid reflux to occur. While Vagotomy is the surgical removal of the vagus nerve branches that irritate the stomach lining. However, this type of surgical treatment are now replaced by the more non-surgical medications available today.

To prevent acid reflux naturally, sleeping with the head and body slightly raised up using pillows or just simply sleeping sitting up. Limit your food intake especially at dinner. Too much food consumption can lead to excessive acid production so better monitor your eating habit.

Doctors also recommend that you analyze your body on why you have an acid reflux attack. The best way is to avoid the foods that can trigger your symptoms. Behavioral changes can greatly help you to prevent and treat GERD naturally.link

For more news and information on health and wellness, please make sure to visit ..http://healthpkzone.blogspot.com/

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