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Acid Reflux
Acid reflux occurs when acid or other materials in the stomach back flow or reflux into the esophagus. The sphincter at the bottom of the oesophagus normally prevents acid reflux. Problems occur if the sphincter does not work very well. This is common, but in most cases it is not known why it does not work so well. Acid reflux syndrome or GERD (Gastro Esophageal Reflux Disease should not be ignored and therefore getting the right acid reflux information is important.
In most cases of acid reflux the back flow of materials remains in the lower part of the esophagus resulting in heartburn and nausea, and can cause damage to the esophagus.
In some cases the reflux can back up all the way into the throat or mouth, causing an extremely uncomfortable burning sensation.
Many people experience acid reflux at some point in their lives, most commonly after a heavy meal. If you only experience acid reflux as a rarity then it is okay to ignore it. However if you commonly suffer from acid reflux then you should definitely take action as soon as possible, before it develops into other complications.
Such complications include, erosive esophagitis, esophageal stricture, ulceration and has even been linked to esophageal cancer.
Who is most likely to suffer from acid reflux
Can be anyone regardless of age of sex but most common in those with obesity, niatal hernia, recurring vomiting or scleroderma (hardening of the skin and connective tissue). For women, acid reflux can be more common during pregnancy.
Symptoms
Treatment
There are a number of different options for treating acid reflux, ranging from short term measures aimed at providing immediate relief to long term measures aimed at preventing its occurrance altogether. What is most suitable for you may depend upon your circumstances and the severity of your condition. For occasional sufferers over the counter medicine can be enough to provide relief, whilst more serious cases may find that longer term treatment such as dietary changes are needed. Along the left side of the page are some links to acid reflux products/resources you may find useful.
There are a number of different options for treating acid reflux, ranging from short term measures aimed at providing immediate relief to long term measures aimed at preventing its occurrance altogether. What is most suitable for you may depend upon your circumstances and the severity of your condition. For occasional sufferers over the counter medicine can be enough to provide relief, whilst more serious cases may find that longer term treatment such as dietary changes are needed. Along the left side of the page are some links to acid reflux products/resources you may find useful.