Acid Reflux: A very common ailment known as ‘acid reflux’ afflicts a great many people without them even knowing what they have. Some sufferers ascribe the burning sensation in their throats as merely heartburn or indigestion. The accepted medical term for this condition is Gastro Esophageal Reflux Disease or (GERD) described as the introduction of excess gastric fluids into the esophagus. This excess frequently results in damage to the protective mucus layer in the throat. Those affected by GERD range from adults down to toddlers and children. However, adults are the ones most troubled by this recurring condition. Some of the causes include overeating, pregnancy, reclining after eating, and often certain types of foods will trigger GERD.
One aspect of GERD not commonly seen as part of this condition is a burning feeling in the chest located near the back of the body. Most people name this heartburn when it is, in fact, part of acid reflux. GERD manifests itself in symptoms such as coughing, changes in vocal tone including hoarseness, ear aches, and sinus problems. Because the mucus layer is affected and worn away, GERD can sometimes result in esophageal raw spots or ulcers, and ultimately in esophageal cancer.
However, only persistent heartburn should raise concerns about the long term effects of GERD. Occasional uncomfortable burning is probably not of concern. Most people experience some type of indigestion or mild heartburn at some time in their lives. They do not necessarily develop GERD.
A variety of reasons for the development of acid reflux are found. Any increase in the acid content of the stomach will likely cause acid reflux. This can come about because of dietary changes, obesity, pregnancy, or even tight fitting clothes. In addition, yeast infections may change the level of acid introduced into the body.
A seemingly unreasonable explanation for excess acid in the esophagus is the lack of acid production in the stomach. The valve leading to the intestines sometimes fails to operate properly because of the lack of stomach acids, thus retaining gastric fluids in the stomach which, in turn, backs up into the esophagus. This accounts for a burning sensation in the throat.
Several treatments for GERD are found to be effective. A change in diet to balance the amount of acid produced can be easy and effective. Properly administered medications are also quite useful. Surgery is usually the last resort as it is the most invasive of all treatments for acid reflux.
ACID REFLUX * CAUSES * SYMPTOMS OF ACID REFLUX * ADULT ACID REFLUX * ACID REFLUX AND PREGNANCY * ASTHMA AND ACID REFLUX * ACID REFLUX AND SORE THROATS * ACID REFLUX IN CHILDREN * ACID REFLUX IN BABIES * ACID REFLUX TREATMENT * ACID REFLUX NATURAL CURES
LINKS TO OTHER SITES ABOUT ACID REFLUX
http://www.healthcentral.com/acid-reflux/introduction-000085_4-145.html
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gastroesophageal_reflux_disease
http://www.healthcastle.com/acid_reflux.shtml
http://www.emedicinehealth.com/reflux_disease_gerd/article_em.htm
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/heartburn-gerd/DS00095
http://www.healingdaily.com/conditions/acid-reflux.htm