Is Acid Reflux Simply Heartburn

Is acid reflux (GERD) simply a case of heartburn? For those who do have acid reflux, they know from the pain that the phrase “simple heartburn”, does not adequately describe this chronic condition. Yes, you can have simple symptoms, but it can become more severe if you do not have the right treatment, diet and medication. In simple terms, I will try to give you an idea of what acid reflux is, what causes it, its symptoms and the treatment available.

Acid Reflux is a condition where liquid from the stomach will back up into the esophagus. This liquid contains pepsin and acid that can inflame and damage the lining of the esophagus, if it goes unchecked.

You may not notice your acid reflux during the day because your body has mechanisms that help to protect you from the harmful effects of the acid. For example, when you are in an upright position the acid is more likely to flow back down into the stomach, due in part to gravity. In addition, the act of swallowing and with your saliva natural bicarbonate attributes it helps to keep the acid reflux from causing you any problems during the day.

However, at night, your body does not have the benefit of gravity, continual swallowing and saliva to protect your esophagus. At night when you are asleep the continuous swallowing stops, the secretion of saliva slows, and gravity is of no benefit. This is when you may wake up in the night with pain in your stomach, or burning in your throat.

The cause of acid reflux is rather complex. Here are some factors that can possibly lead to this problem:

1. Lower esophageal sphincter - those with GERD usually have abnormally weak contractions of the sphincter, which reduces the ability to prevent reflux.

2. Hiatal hernias - When an individual has a Hiatal hernia, a small part of the upper stomach that is attached to the esophagus may push up through the diaphragm. Since a small part of the stomach and the sphincter is now lying in the chest, and not level with the diaphragm, the acid will reflux into the esophagus.

3. Esophageal contractions- when the esophageal contractions are defective, the uncoordinated contractions can cause pain in the chest, and difficulty or inability to swallowing food or liquid.

4. Emptying the stomach - Most reflux incidents occur after eating. This reflex probably occurs due to the relaxation of the sphincter and the distention of the stomach that would now contain food.

As you will see, the most common symptoms of acid reflux are manageable. However, if you are not familiar with its symptoms you may ignore your body’s warnings until the pain or problems of the disease lead you to the doctor’s office.

Common Symptoms

1. Heartburn: The most common symptom of GERD is heartburn. Heartburn is the burning sensation that is felt under the chest, and worsens when you lie down.

2. Regurgitation - It is when you have the sensation of acid backing up in your throat or mouth.

3. Stomach discomfort- This can include burping, nausea after eating, bloating, upper abdominal pain and discomfort.

Symptoms that Need Physician Intervention

1. Weight Loss

2. Blood in vomit

3. Black, tarry or maroon colored stools

4. Difficulty swallowing

5. Asthma-like symptoms (Which can include shortness of breath)

6. Chronic sore throat

7. Nausea that last for weeks

8. Hiccups that do not let up

9. Hoarseness

10. Diarrhea

GERD can cause different complications if you do not get control of the symptoms. However, realize that this is not complete.

Ulcers

If the acid damages the cells of the esophagus, it (the esophagus) can become inflamed. This type of inflammation is called esophagitis. The inflammation is the body’s way of trying to neutralize the damage to allow the healing process to begin. If it does not heal, an ulcer can occur.

Strictures

Strictures are a result of the scar tissue after the healing of the ulcers. This scar tissue can cause the inner layer of the esophagus to narrow. When the esophagus narrows, food can become stuck in the esophagus. Moreover, if it is severe enough, you may have to have it removed endoscopically. Once the food is removed, they will have to widen the opening of the esophagus.

Barrett's Esophagus

When the acid flux is severe, it can change the cells in the lining of the esophagus so much, that it can cause cancer. This type of cancer is called Barrett's Esophagus Cancer. This type of cancer occurs in approximately 10% of individuals with acid reflux.

Cough and Asthma

Without the refluxed liquid reaching the throat, it can cause coughing. Nerves in the lower esophagus that connect to the esophagus nerves can stimulate nerves going to the lungs. The nerves in the lungs can cause the breathing tubes to narrow, causing an asthma attack.

Inflammation and infection of the Lungs

Refluxed acid that bypasses the throat and goes into the lungs can cause pneumonia. This is a serious condition and should be treated immediately. Why is it serious? It can cause scar tissue in the lungs.

Treating acid reflux include lifestyle changes and medication.

Lifestyle changes

1. Sleeping-you will need to elevate the upper body at night to help prevent the acid from moving up and or remaining in the esophagus.

2. Diet - Eat small meals. This lessens the distention of the stomach for a longer period. In addition, your evening meal should be early. The early meal will ensure that the stomach is empty and will less likely cause an occurrence of acid reflex while you sleep.

3. Choose your food carefully. There are certain foods that can trigger acid reflux symptoms. For example:

• Garlic and onions

• Mint flavorings

• Spicy foods

• Citrus fruits

• Chocolate

• Drinks with caffeine or alcohol

• Fatty and fried foods

4. Lose weight if you are overweight

5. Stop smoking

Medications

There are different medications that can help ease the symptoms of acid reflux. Most Notably:

1. Antacids: Alka-Seltzer, Maalox, Pepto-Bismol

2. Histamine antagonists- Zantac, Axid

3. Proton pump inhibitors - Prilosec, Prevacid, Protonix, Nexium, Aciphex

4. Promobility Drugs - These drugs are used to enhance the affect of the medication that is currently being used by the individual.

Note: All over-the-counter drugs should be discussed with your doctor.

To conclude, acid reflux is a chronic condition that should never be ignored. Without treatment and without keeping your symptoms in check, it can evolve into conditions that are not "simple" to fix.