Normally,a valve at the top of your stomach called the lower esophageal sphincter,or LES,closes when food passes through it,preventing stomach acid from escaping.In acid reflux disease,or gastroesophageal reflux disease(GERD),the valve doesn't close completely or opens too often.
This faulty valve is most commonly caused by hiatil hernia,which is a displacement of part of the stomach above the diaphragm,or by a number of habits,such as eating big meals;lying down ,bending at the waist,or lying on your back after eating;eating bedtime snacks;eating citrus,tomato,chocolate,mint,garlic,onions,spicy and fatty food;drinking alcohol,soda,coffee or tea;smoking;pregnancy;taking aspirin,ibuprofen or blood pressure medication.Age is also a predsiposing factor in developing GERD.
The main symptoms of GERD are heartburn and/or regurgitation of acid into your throat or mouth,leaving a sour or bitter taste for several hours.If these happen twice or more weekly or are severe,you likely have GERD.Another common symptom of GERD is dysphagia,a feeling of fullness in the throat when you swallow food.
If left untreated,GERD may eventually damage your esophagus.
Your physician may order tests such as endoscopy,a thin lighted tube with a camera on the end that is passed down your throat as far as your stomach so your upper digestive tract may be examined.
If over the counter antacids such as Rolaids or Mylanta don't work,in addition to dietary changes,other medications may be suggested or prescribed,such as Prilosec or Zantac.
In the worst cases,a surgery called fundoplication is available.This involves creating an artificial valve using the top of your stomach.It is a last resort.
Do not mix medications such as different antacids or antacids with other types of GERD medicines on your own.Consult your physician if you have severe GERD that doesn't respond to basic treatment with an antacid or if there is a question about what you have.
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