Acid Reflux - Is it in You?

It is not until recently that I learned this terminology. Acid Reflux or gastric acid flow back from stomach to the esophagus is a disease that may be minor but could be life threatening if not treated. As I searched the internet for articles that might help me understand Acid Reflux better, I started to wonder and ask myself a lot of things. What if it's in me? What if I'm just ignoring the signs that say I have one? Could my life be in danger? How am I supposed to determine if I have this disease? These are just some of the questions that crossed my mind when I learned about Acid Reflux. I decided to write this article not as a test but as a way of helping those people who are experiencing Acid Reflux symptoms but are not aware of it.

To start with, I would like make it clear that the causes of acid reflux vary on each individual. Based on the sources that I have read, I would say that acid reflux is a disease in which the linings of the esophagus are damage due to the presence of gastric acids. These acids which are vital for the digestion in the stomach find their way up to the esophagus. Doctors found out that most patients have their low esophageal sphincters (LES) damage or are not functioning properly thus allowing the acids to flow upward.

The causes are not definite in all patients but they do experience the same major symptoms. The most common symptoms are heartburn, regurgitation and dyspepsia. Heartburn or acid indigestion is a burning pain or discomfort from your stomach to your abdomen and chest. You can also experience the pain up to your throat. Although it is commonly known as heartburn, it does not affect your heart in anyway. Next is regurgitation. It is the sensation of acid backing up to your throat or mouth. Regurgitation can produce a bitter or sour taste. It can also lead to "wet burp" or vomiting with just liquids. Vomiting with stomach contents can also be observed. The last major symptom of acid reflux is the syndrome called dyspepsia. It is generally known as stomach discomfort. Its symptoms include burping, nausea after eating, stomach bloating and upper abdominal pain.

I found out that people with poor eating habits are more likely prone to acid reflux. That may be also true to people experiencing ulcers. Irregular eating habits may also lead to acid reflux. A cure for this disease is yet to be found but there are already experimental methods being used especially in America. They include acid inhibitors and surgery. As for me who has an acute ulcer, I am following a natural way of prevention by means of a proper diet. I regulate my acids by eating almost the same quantity and quality of food. I also avoid foods which produce large amounts of acids.

This disease might be minor but if neglected it can lead into a major problem like esophageal cancer. It doesn't hurt to pay attention to our diet and our health. Aside from lengthening our life span, we also make our way of life better, a simple act yet essential for a joyful life.