Gerd Symptoms & Treatment

GERD occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter opens when it should remain shut. This allows the stomach acid to creep back up in to the esophagus and cause a burning or uncomfortable feeling. This is only considered Acid Reflux when it occurs on a regular basis. There are a few things that make a person more susceptible to this happening. Hiatal hernia, alcohol, smoking, pregnancy, being overweight and eating certain foods are all causes of GERD.

Chest symptoms are common among GERD sufferers. An individual will suffer from the feeling of heartburn. He may find that he needs to take a lot of antacids. He may also feel pain in his chest or just an uncomfortable feeling. This usually occurs after a meal. GERD can also cause him to cough on a frequent basis. This is noticeable because he does not have a cold or any common condition that usually causes the cough. It is also common for someone with GERD to have bad smelling breath.

Symptoms of GERD may also be felt in the throat. When the acid gets in the esophagus, it can cause sore throats. This may lead a person's voice to begin to sound hoarse. Depending on the severity of the Acid Reflux, an individual may begin to have trouble swallowing. They could experience a sensation that something is in their throat. They may choke when they eat or just complain of a tightness. It is important to get treatment right away if any of these symptoms occur. Failing to get the nutrition in to your body that it needs each day will cause other health issues.

There are four basic ways that a doctor can diagnose GERD. First, the doctor may find that your symptoms are all he or she needs to begin treatment. Second, the doctor may order a barium swallow. This test is not painful. All the individual has to do is drink a chalky colored substance and have X-Rays taken. Third, the doctor may order an upper endoscopy. This test uses a small camera that is inserted down through your esophagus. It allows the doctor to see what is going on down there. Finally, the doctor may want to order a PH exam. A camera is placed down in to the esophagus and left there for twenty four hours. This allows the doctor to see what happens over the course of a day. Based on the findings of these tests, your doctor can begin treating you.

Mild acid reflux is usually treated with over-the-counter drugs such as Maalox. The doctor will also recommend that you adjust your lifestyle to your tendency toward GERD. This would mean staying away from alcohol, cigarettes, citrus fruits, pasta sauce, caffeine, and chocolates. You should also sleep with the top of your bed raised so that you are not laying down flat. Don't take any naps within three hours after you eat your meals and try to wear lose fitting clothing. If GERD persists, you will need stronger medications such as Zantac, Pepcid AC, or Tagament HB. If these medications don't do the trick, there are a few that are known to be effective for all GERD cases. They are Prilosec, Nexium, and Prevacid. Your doctor will know which drugs would be just right for you based on the severity of your Acid Reflux, your medical history and the side effects of the drugs.