Treat Acid Reflux

How to Spot 5 Main Acid Reflux Symptoms
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Defined Tag: Acid Reflux Symptoms.

Acid reflux affects over 35% of the American population and so is classed as a common gastrointestinal condition. It occurs when the sphincter in between the oesophagus and the stomach becomes weakened and so doesn’t close completely. This allows the stomach acid to travel up the oesophagus and often into the throat and it is here that acid reflux symptoms are most commonly felt.

There are five main acid reflux symptoms that can be used to make a diagnosis and when these symptoms are experienced to the point that normal everyday functioning is affected then a doctor should definitely be consulted.

The first of the acid reflux symptoms is continual burping. This signals that there is a build up of gas in the stomach which is commonly caused by the action of excess acid on ingested food. When the gas is released the sphincter opens slightly and small amounts of acid are allowed to escape.

The second of the acid reflux symptoms involves an uncomfortable burning sensation in the general vicinity of the chest because of the action of the excess acid on the lining of the stomach, oesophagus and throat. Occasionally the acid can travel as far as the junction which leads to the lungs and in these cases a persistent cough may develop as the acid erodes the lining of the trachea i.e. the tube that leads to the lungs.

An antacid can help to relieve this particular acid reflux symptom, especially if the sufferer relaxes and breathes deeply as well. A glass of water can also help to dislodge any stuck food that may be holding the sphincter open.

The third, fourth and fifth acid reflux symptoms are all associated with the throat and mouth. As the acid from the stomach starts to affect the lining of the throat the voice can become hoarse and the throat can become very sore and painful. If these acid reflux symptoms are allowed to continue unchecked the sufferer may very well lose their voice for a period of time. This can then be made worse by continual coughing so that permanent damage is a real possibility.

The last of the major acid reflux symptoms involves a sour taste in the mouth that is often worse following a big meal or a particularly acidic meal. Fortunately however all of these symptoms can be treated and controlled so that a diagnosis of acid reflux doesn’t have to affect the quality of life for the sufferer.

Acid Reflux can be very painful but it is definitely treatable. For more information and resources on acid reflux treatment, please visit this site at http://www.treat-acid-reflux.com.