GERD
Acid reflux usually occurs when the stomach’s contents go back up into the esophagus, an action referred to as gastroesophageal reflux or regurgitation. Those who experience these symptoms thrice a week or more likely have gastroesophageal reflux disorder or GERD. It’s more common than people realize, affecting nearly twenty percent of Americans. While it isn’t life-threatening, it can potentially cause severe complications if left unchecked.
The primary symptom of the condition is acid reflux, which can cause uncomfortable, burning sensations in your chest, moving up the throat and neck. Those with the condition might also develop a bitter or sour taste due to the regurgitation of food. Other symptoms that may come with GERD are nausea, chest pain, trouble swallowing, chronic cough, bad breath, and a hoarse voice.
Your healthcare provider may encourage you to adopt some lifestyle changes to treat GERD or manage, if not relieve, its symptoms. These include maintaining a healthy and moderate weight, dropping the habit of smoking, avoiding substantial meals at night, waiting for a couple of hours before sleeping after eating, and elevating the head whenever you sleep. In other cases, medication like antacids may be recommended.
