What is Acid Reflux, its symptoms and how is it different from Heartburn

What is Acid Reflux?

GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease), commonly known as Acid Reflux is a condition that affects many people each and every day. The discomfort they experience almost on daily basis makes them reliant on medication to alleviate their symptoms.

There is usually a burning, heavy sensation in the throat and chest that can make anyone feel less than their best.

Many sufferers are unclear as to why acid reflux is afflicting them or even if they have acid reflux. So they live for years with acid reflux, thinking they only have indigestion or heartburn.

We will discuss here some of the more common questions dealing with acid reflux.

What is the difference between Heartburn and Acid Reflux?

Heartburn and acid reflux are presenting themselves under essentially the same forms of manifestation. What differentiates them is the frequency of the attacks.
Put in simple terms, in both cases, fluids from the stomach are forcing their way up into the esophagus.

Heartburn is usually treated with over the counter medications due to its infrequency. People generally know what foods seem to set their attack off.

Acid reflux requires a doctor's care because it can cause lasting damage to the esophagus and can be a symptom of a bigger problem.

How do I know if I have it?

The only way to know if you have GERD otherwise known as acid reflux, is by seeing a health professional. Your family physician will assess your condition and will most likely refer you to a gastroenterologist for further diagnosis.

The gastroenterologist will place a catheter into your esophagus and measure the amount of acid and bile coming into your esophagus and then determine if you truly have acid reflux disease.

What ages are more prone to be affected by Acid Reflux?

Acid reflux does not differentiate between the age, gender, ethnicity or religious viewpoint. It can strike anyone at any age. There are factors that can increase your likelihood of developing acid reflux. It is important that if you are suffering from repeat attacks of heartburn or indigestion to seek out the advice of your physician.

What are the long term effects of Acid Reflux if not controlled?

Uncontrolled acid reflux can be deadly. It may be hard to fathom heartburn or indigestion actually killing you but it certainly can.

Untreated or uncontrolled acid reflux can cause the throat to become narrower, can cause ulcers and even cancer.

Acid reflux can also keep the throat irritated and contribute to asthma and coughing.

Your respiratory system can suffer as well with the liquid reflux going down into the lungs causing choking, inflammation and infection.

Acid reflux is not something that can go ignored for long. If you suffer from acid reflux it is important to stay abreast of treatment methods.