What is acid reflux disease?
Acid reflux occurs when stomach contents is pushed back up the esophagus. Stomach contents contain acid and enzymes, which can damage the lining of the esophagus, causing symptoms of heartburn.
What causes acid reflux disease?
There is a small muscle between the esophagus and stomach that forms a barrier between them. Normally, the muscle relaxes and opens into the stomach to swallow so that food can pass into your stomach. After food enters the stomach, the muscle contracts and closes the entrance.
In acid reflux, the muscle relaxes and allows stomach contents to go back, back into the esophagus
There are risk factors for acid reflux? Yes
Risk factors for acid reflux include obesity
smokers < , br />
hiatal hernia
Pregnancy
Asthma (is unclear whether this is really a risk factor or if asthma and acid reflux are related in some way, but often go together)
diabetes
ulcer peptic
delayed emptying of the stomach
disorders of connective tissue
syndrome Zollinger – Ellison
What are the symptoms of acid reflux disease?
A burning sensation in the chest or throat. ?
Sour or bitter taste in the mouth.
belching.
Wheezing.
Hoarseness.
Cough.
The symptoms of acid reflux also have some special features:
usually get worse when you lie or double plus.
Eat
usually makes worse. Certain foods
worse.
antacids often help.
exercise is not usually the symptoms either better or worse.
? ? The symptoms of acid reflux can mimic the symptoms of a heart attack. If you experience pain or burning in the chest and / or throat, sweating and / or difficulty breathing, call 911. Do not waste time trying to figure out if it is serious or not. It is important to get treatment for heart attack as soon as possible. DO NOT drive yourself to the doctor’s office or hospital.
What can I do to get relief from acid reflux disease?
1.Use antacids or OTC medications for acid indigestion and heartburn. Sodium bicarbonate is not recommended because it contains too much sodium.
2.Eat smaller meals.
3.Don
not sleep at least 45 minutes after eating
4.Watch diet. Fatty foods, spicy foods, onions, tomatoes, chocolate, beverages containing caffeine, alcohol and carbonated beverages frequently cause acid reflux. Pay attention to the things that make you have indigestion, and eliminate from your diet.
5.Raise the head of his bed. This may keep you awake at night with indigestion. 6.The
weight.
7.Stop smoking.
8.Talk your doctor about your medications, including prescriptions and vitamins or minerals you take. Avoid taking aspirin or other OTC anti-inflammatory medication such as ibuprofen.
Knowing the causes of acid reflux can help you decide what changes can be made to obtain relief of symptoms today.