What Is Acid Reflux Disease?
While acid reflux is a very common condition among people of all ages, its causes and symptoms are very misunderstood. When discussing acid reflux, it's important to understand the difference between normal acid reflux, heartburn, and GERD. Once you can differentiate these conditions, it will be easier for you to discuss treatment options with your doctor and make management of symptoms much simpler.
- Acid Reflux - At the bottom of the esophagus there is a muscle called the lower esophageal sphincter or LES that, when functioning normally, closes after we eat in order to keep stomach contents from rising up into the esophagus and mouth. When this muscle becomes weak or damaged and doesn't close properly, it allows stomach acid and contents to slosh up out of the stomach. This causes a variety of symptoms that range from gas and bloating to painful abdominal cramping and heartburn.
- Heartburn - Often confused with acid reflux, heartburn is actually a symptom of the condition and not a condition itself. Heartburn is the burning sensation that one feels as stomach acid rises up into the esophagus. Heartburn is the most common symptom associated with acid reflux.
- GERD - Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) is digestive disorder that is marked by chronic acid reflux. If you experience acid reflux more than twice a week on a regular basis, you may have GERD acid reflux disease. Many people suffer from GERD, but its causes are varied. Many health care professionals have suggested diet, hiatal hernias, weight, lifestyle, pregnancy, and even genetics as possible causes for GERD. Much like acid reflux, GERD can be treated with changes in diet and lifestyle, antacids, prescription medication, and in some cases, surgery. Where GERD differs from acid reflux is that, as a chronic condition, long-term damage to the esophagus can lead to esophageal bleeding, ulcers, scarring, and Barrett's syndrome. Barrett's syndrome is severe damage to the lining of the esophagus that may be a precursor to esophageal cancer.
If you experience symptoms of acid reflux on a regular basis, speak to your doctor about whether or not you could be suffering from GERD. You doctor will be able to determine the severity of your condition and recommend treatment options that best suit your needs.