Thursday 14 July 2011

Understanding Acid Reflux Symptoms

Reflux occurs when stomach acids are pushed back through a valve between the stomach and esophagus called the esophageal sphincter or what doctors call LES. This means that you regurgitate the stomach's content which then causes an inflammation in the esophagus. Though it is not a big deal and it could probably happen to anyone, this could be a sign that your body is not healthy. However, the bottom cause of GERD is still unknown, it is believed that acid reflux is caused by being overweight and eating a poor diet. Usually, reflux occurs during digestion. It is when the stomach churns up acid into the esophagus which causes a burning sensation in the throat and chest.
Heartburn can happen to anyone. So what are the signs and symptoms that you may be experiencing an acid reflux? One of the most common symptoms of GERD is abdominal pain. Some may experience discomfort especially after meals. Also these people may have bad breath, excessive secretion of saliva, bitter taste in their mouth as well as sleeping problems. It is a fact that people with acid reflux develop a sleeping disorder called apnea, due to respiratory insufficiency. Other symptoms also include chest burn or aching, difficulty in swallowing, nausea, poor appetite, presence of blood in stools and vomit. Also breathing difficulties, throat inflammation and pain.
For mild cases, there are times when you can control acid reflux by simple remedies. Drinking lots of water can help you neutralize your PH balance by diluting stomach acids. Medicines such as Nexium are most commonly used to suppress acid by helping decrease your stomach acid. However, if the symptoms you are experiencing are as severe as the symptoms mentioned then it is best that you consult a doctor. Acid reflux can cause a serious damage on your esophagus due to constant exposure to gastric acid. It is important that you pay attention to the symptoms of acid reflux and act immediately to avoid further damage that it may cause to your body and most importantly to your health.
Living a healthy lifestyle can help you get well; it's not all the time that we should rely on the doctors to help us when we are sick. It is important that you pay attention to your lifestyle and the things you do to keep it healthy. Remember that losing your health can also mean that you may use your life. GERD can be treated without the help of medicine that is if you really want to. So if the symptoms you are experiencing are mild ones, there's still time for you to get rid of it. It's just a matter of determination.

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