To understand acid reflux, one must recognize how the digestive system works. The esophageal sphincter sits where the esophagus and stomach meet. The stomach produces acids that aid in the digestion of food. The stomach has strong lining that helps to protect against the acids, but the esophagus does not.

For this reason, the esophageal sphincter closes off so that the acids from the stomach do not come back up into the esophagus. When this sphincter becomes weakened and does not work properly, acids from the stomach flow back up into the esophagus. It is this flow of stomach contents mixed with acids that cause symptoms of reflux.

Most people will experience symptoms of reflux at some point in their lives. These symptoms can be prevalent especially after eating certain types of food or eating large meals. While the occasional symptoms of reflux are harmless, frequent heartburn and symptoms of acid reflux can be a serious medical condition.

Acid reflux is also referred to as Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD). One of the most common symptoms of acid reflux is heartburn. Heartburn is a painful, burning sensation that occurs in the chest. Many people will mistake heartburn symptoms for those of a heart attack, so it’s important to see a doctor if the symptoms persist and are not relieved by taking an antacid.

Heartburn symptoms are worse when trying to do certain physical activities after a meal, such as bending over, lifting or lying down. Although heartburn is uncomfortable, antacids and acid blocker medications can be taken to help relieve the symptoms.

Symptoms of reflux also include pain in the upper abdomen, nausea and fullness in the stomach. As with heartburn, these symptoms of reflux are worse after eating a meal. The best way to relieve these symptoms is by eating smaller meals. Overeating will cause the stomach to feel more full and also push up more acids from the stomach.

Another symptom of acid reflux is having stomach acids sit in the back of the throat. These acids not only cause burning and inflammation in the esophagus, but they can also cause a person to vomit. Generally, a person will experience a “wet burp”, but vomiting is a possible reaction.

There are other symptoms of reflux that can occur in the chest or throat. People who suffer from acid reflux often experience pain in the chest, yet it is not a burning sensation as with heartburn. Instead, it feels like a piece of food is stuck behind the breastbone. Because chest pain can be a sign of another serious medical condition, it is important to see a doctor if the pain persists.

Other symptoms of reflux include hoarseness and a dry throat. Some people will also experience the need to clear their throat often, especially when acids sit in the back of the throat. Chronic sore throats are also symptoms of reflux and throat pain can be worse when there is damage done to the esophageal tissue.

Although less common, severe cases of acid reflux will have symptoms that include respiratory infections, such as bronchitis and asthma symptoms. Other people will suffer from nausea and vomiting. As with other symptoms of reflux, people who have chronic nausea and vomiting should seek medical attention, as there may be other factors present.

The best relief for the symptoms of reflux are over-the-counter antacids and acid blockers. Most people are relieved by taking these medications and can maintain a normal lifestyle. If the symptoms persist, prescription medications can be obtained, along with a special diet.

Related Posts

• Heartburn Symptoms
• Reflux Treatment
• Heartburn Information
• Common Causes of Reflux
• Gastric Reflux Symptoms
• What is GERD?
• Acid Reflux in Babies

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