If you are experiencing heartburn, acid reflux, or other symptoms of GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease), you are not alone. GERD is a fairly common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. This condition is caused when stomach acid flows back up into the esophagus. Moreover, it can cause pain and discomfort in the chest area and a burning sensation in the throat. In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about GERD.
What is Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)?
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a chronic digestive disorder that occurs when stomach acid or food back up (reflux) into the esophagus. As a result, it can cause irritation and inflammation of the esophageal lining. GERD symptoms may include heartburn, regurgitation, chest pain, and difficulty swallowing.
What Causes GERD?
The cause of GERD is not completely understood, but it is thought to be caused by a combination of factors, including lifestyle choices, diet, and hiatal hernia. Lifestyle choices that can contribute to GERD include smoking, alcohol use, and being overweight or obese.
Dietary variables that may play a role in GERD include eating large meals, spicy or fatty foods, and drinking carbonated beverages. A hiatal hernia is a condition that allows stomach acid to back up into the esophagus, causing GERD.
What are the Symptoms of GERD?
The most common symptoms of GERD are heartburn and regurgitation. Other symptoms may include chest pain, difficulty swallowing, and a sour taste in the mouth. However, many people with GERD have no symptoms.
Also, note that regurgitation and heartburn are sometimes confused with each other, but they are not the same thing. Heartburn causes and symptoms include burning sensations that may occur after eating or lying down at night. Regurgitation occurs when stomach contents back up into the mouth, causing an acidic taste in the mouth. People who experience regurgitation often have both heartburn and regurgitation.
Treatment for GERD
There are many different treatments for GERD, depending on the severity of symptoms. Lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking, avoiding alcohol, and eating smaller meals may help to relieve symptoms.
Medications that can be used to treat GERD include over-the-counter antacids and H-blockers. It is important to talk with your doctor for gastroesophageal reflux disease in New Mexico about the best treatment plan for you.
To Sum It Up
This was a general overview of gastroesophageal reflux disease. If you would like more information, please consult a healthcare professional. Remember that many people with GERD have no symptoms, so it is important to see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment if you think you may have GERD.
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