Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease

Gastroesophageal reflux disease is a health condition that happens when the lower portion of the esophagus does not lock up as it should be and the acid from the stomach goes back into the esophagus. Basically, the main function of the esophagus in the body is to transmit food from the mouth going to the stomach. While the lower portion of the esophagus functions as a valve connecting the esophagus and the stomach.

Acid reflux occurs when the inside layer of the esophagus is tapped, thereby resulting to a burning feeling within the region of the throat and the chest. This happening is known as heartburn. Every so often, it may turn out that the gastric juice is tasted at the rear of your mouth. This condition is called acid indigestion.

Typically, gastroesophageal reflux disease may lead to severe health problems. If the heartburn sufferer is experiencing chest pain over two times a week, then he really has a reflux disease.

It is important to note that gastroesophageal reflux disease involves several symptoms. These usually include acid regurgitation as well as chronic heartburn. Heartburn is not the only indication that you have a reflux disease. There are cases wherein the patient is afflicted with acid reflux disease but does not experience heartburn. Other symptoms may be present which include chest pain, croakiness especially during daytime and soreness when swallowing. The disease may also give rise to dry cough as well as halitosis.

As stated by recent medical studies, the gastroesophageal reflux disease is very rampant in children. For this reason it is important give serious medical attention to these issues. If the acid reflux problem occurs frequently and brings about pain and distress, then you have to take your baby to the doctor immediately. It is highly recommended to put your baby in a vertical position 30 minutes after feeding him. You have to make your baby burp for many times when feeding so as to prevent acid reflux.

For an older child, it is suggested to avoid drinking caffeinated drinks and eating spicy and fatty foods along with chocolates. Also, do not eat 3 hours before you go to sleep. There are some medicines which you can take to relieve the discomfort brought about by this disease. But you need to check it first with your doctor. If the problem is very severe, then you will need to undergo a surgery.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease usually occurs because of a lot of factors such as pregnancy, obesity, smoking and drinking alcohol. So if you want to save yourself from the threats of this disease, then you must take into consideration all of these factors.

Understanding Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease Recommended Resources:

University of Virginia

University of Maryland - Medical Center