Acid Reflux Disease

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Ooh, I HATE acid reflux! I used to suffer from this on a regular basis, eating antacids like they were candy. I could go through a family pack of Tums inside a week (berry flavor is my favorite). It was definitely worse during my pregnancy... and shortly after delivery when I needed to get my gallbladder removed. Since then my condition has been greatly improved. I can't really say I improved my diet that much, although I did a little, but something definitely helped. In my attempts to discover why I was plagued with this condition I came up with some helpful research for acid reflux causes and treatments that you might benefit from. Read through this site for more information if this is a problem for you, too.

Also known as GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease), acid reflux affects millions of people worldwide. A lot of people get simple heartburn, but if you really have the disease it is typically diagnosed after determining that it is affecting your life style. We've all seen the commercials about the little purple pill. If you suffer from heartburn 2 or more times weekly over a period of a few months, the doctor is probably going to say you have GERD. The true cause is almost impossible to pin down and is usually a combination of factors, but there are lots of solutions to try. If this site doesn't give you enough ideas do a basic internet search for acid reflux for more information.

What is Acid Reflux Disease?

The medical explanation says its a condition when your stomach acid backs up into the esophagus. This is typically quite unpleasant, sometimes extremely painful. If the lower esophageal sphincter is too relaxed it doesn't prevent the acid from crawling back up instead of staying inside the stomach to help digest food.

Standard heartburn is normal, especially after eating spicy foods. Occasional discomfort is probably not a true acid reflux disease. But if you have this burning sensation frequently then you may be suffering from GERD. Its advised that you visit your regular physician for a true diagnosis and not try to self diagnose. Over the counter medications should be taken with caution. Always ask your doctor first.

This condition can also affect babies. Infants are more prone to reflux due their continuous prone position (gravity working against them) and they eat liquids only for so long its easy for that to slip back up the esophageal tract.

There is good news: this disease is usually quite manageable, but if ignored it can lead to very serious, chronic conditions. There are lots of potential treatments, the most common being a change in lifestyle, diet, reducing stress, medication or a combination of the above.

Information on this site is for informational purposes only. Read our disclaimer and be sure to see your doctor!