The esophagus carries food from our mouth to our stomach. After we swallow a valve between our esophagus and our stomach opens to allow the food to pass through. The valve will then close in order to prevent the stomach contents to leak back or reflux into the esophagus.
People who are suffering with Gastro Esophageal reflux disease, GERD or acid reflux disease have problems with this GE valve not closing properly causing acid to reflux into the esophagus.
When refluxed stomach acid touches the lining of the esophagus, it causes a burning sensation in the chest or throat called heartburn. The fluid may even be tasted in the back of the mouth, and this is called acid indigestion (acid reflux). Occasional heartburn is common but does not necessarily mean one has GERD. Heartburn that occurs more than twice a week may be considered GERD, and it can eventually lead to more serious health problems.
Symptoms of Gastro Esophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)?
The primary symptoms of GERD is persistent heartburn and/or acid regurgitation. However, people experience symptoms of GERD in a variety of ways. Symptoms of GERD may include:
Heartburn
Regurgitation
Chest pain
Horseness or a Sore throat
Trouble swallowing or a feeling like food is stuck in your throat
Dry Cough
Bad Breath
Causes
Hiatal hernia- hiatal hernia occurs when the upper part of the stomach is above the diaphragm, the muscle wall that separates the stomach from the chest.
Alcohol use
Overweight
Pregnancy
Eating fast
Eating large meals
Eating late at night
Smoking
Certain food and drinks
When left untreated, Gastric Reflux can lead to potentially serious complications:
Esophagitis (Inflammation, irritation, or swelling of the esophagus)
Stricture (Narrowing of the esophagus)
Barrett's Esophagus (Pre-cancerous changes to the esophagus)
If you have frequent heartburn or acid reflux, call our office today for a consultation at 516.374.8631. There are options to relieve your pain and successfully treat your GERD.
