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 main symptoms are persistent heartburn and acid regurgitation. Some people have GERD without heartburn. Instead, they experience pain in the chest, hoarseness in the morning, or trouble swallowing. You may feel like you have food stuck in your throat or like you are choking or your throat is tight. GERD can also cause a dry cough and 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
Consultation with a physician is essential to proper diagnosis and treatment of GERD. If you have frequent heartburn or acid reflux, call our office today for a consultation at 516.374.8631.
Causes
