An Introduction to Acid Reflux Disease
by Dave
Lavinsky
zone3
Acid reflux disease, also known as Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease
or GERD, afflicts millions of people. Many suffer from an occasional bout
with heartburn, but acid reflux disease, as a diagnosis, should only be
made if the heartburn causes impediments to your lifestyle due to severe,
chronic discomfort over prolonged periods of time.
Usually, if you suffer from heartburn 2 or more times per week for at
least 12 weeks, there’s a good chance that your diagnosis would be GERD.
Unfortunately, no one knows exactly what causes acid reflux disease, but
there is an ample amount of information available at your doctor’s office
and on the Internet.
The good news is that acid reflux disease is a highly manageable
condition, though it can lead to potentially serious, chronic conditions.
Many avenues are available with regard to treatment options. The most
common options recommended include lifestyle changes, medical treatments,
stress management, and/or a combination of all strategies.
What is Acid Reflux Disease?
Acid reflux disease is
a chronic condition in which stomach acid washes back up onto the
esophagus, causing severe discomfort. Stomach acid burns the esophagus
lining due to a relaxed lower esophageal sphincter (LES). The LES acts as
a valve between your stomach and the esophagus. The valve is designed to
open and allow food into the stomach, and then close, protecting the
esophagus from acids. However, if the LES is not closing properly, acid
rushes or refluxes upward, coating the esophagus, and causes a burning
sensation.
Remember that it’s normal to suffer from acid reflux (heartburn) every
once and awhile. It’s only acid reflux disease when it’s a chronic
condition, happening frequently and for long periods of time. If you are
unsure, don’t hesitate to see your doctor. One more thing to keep in mind
is that heartburn has nothing to do with your heart. It just feels
that way at times because the esophagus is located behind the heart.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Acid Reflux provides comprehensive information on the cause,
symptoms, treatment, and diet associated with normal and infant acid
reflux. For more information go to Acid Reflux and/or visit its
sister site at Pain Relief
Web for related information.
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