Acid reflux is a condition when some of the strong acids from the stomach and other stomach contents flow up into the oesophagus via the LES, lower esophageal sphincter. The LES allows the food to enter the stomach once it is swallowed.
The LES then would close to prevent the contents from the stomach to back out. Weakened or damaged LES does not close completely, instead, it allows for harmful stomach content to come out into the esophagus thereby causing the acid reflux symptoms.The symptoms of acid reflux are often experienced when is lying down, after a heavy meal, and after a spicy or fatty meal.
Acid reflux can be experienced at any time of the day although majority tend to experience them at night. Recurrent acid reflux could be an indicator of GERD a more spartan acid reflux form that could result in serious complications if not treated.Acid reflux symptoms vary among individuals and with the organs affected by the stomach contents.
Heartburn is also referred to as acid indigestion. It is the commonest symptom of the acid reflux. The rising stomach acid causes the burning and painful sensation. Heartburn ranges from discomfort to painful. Nevertheless, the extent of the burning sensation is not an indication of either a lasting or permanent injury to the oesophagus.
The condition usually worsens when one lies or bends over. These postures make it possible for the outflow of the stomach acids to the chest.Sour tasteWhen the stomach acids and their contents rise to the rear part of the throat or into the mouth, it causes a bitter or sour taste in the mouth. Additionally, a burning sensation is felt in the mouth and his throat.
Regurgitation
Regurgitation is the feeling of food, bile or liquid moving wrongly in the throat. Sometimes people may vomit though it is rare in adults.
Children and toddlers under 18 months old experience recurrent regurgitation. For children this is natural and is therefore not harmful. Research shows that infants suffer from reflux for the first three months.
Dyspepsia is also known as ingestion. It is a feeling of discomfort and a burning sensation in the upper middle area of the stomach. Patients suffering from dyspepsia may experience the following; feeling bloated, feeling uncomfortably full, heartburn, feeling nauseated, experience stomach upsets, they burp or vomit a lot.
These symptoms can potentially indicate the presence of another disease known as the peptic ulcers disease. Dysphagia (Difficulty in swallowing)This condition is characterised by difficulties or pain when swallowing. Dysphagia is caused by cancer, Parkison’s stroke, and multiple sclerosis. Acid reflux usually irritates the throat.
Common symptoms include:
- Hoarse voice
- Sore throat
- The feeling of a lump in one’s throat
Some adults and children under twelve do not experience heartburn. Instead, they manifest other reflux symptoms such as a dry cough (a feeling of persistent coughing) and asthma symptoms.
Sourced from: WebMD
Photo: Thinkstock/KatarzynaBialasiewicz
