Acid Reflux

What Is It?

Acid reflux occurs when stomach acids back up in the esophagus, which is the tube that connects the mouth and the stomach. The condition can be painful and can cause discomfort, since undigested or partially digested food can also move back up to the esophagus from the stomach.

Acid reflux might occur intermittently or frequently. Acid reflux disease can lead to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), which is a condition that describes chronic acid reflux. Over time, GERD can cause permanent damage to the esophagus. The condition can also lead to esophageal cancer, especially with smoking and heavy alcohol use.

Types

There are two types of acid reflux. Supine acid reflux occurs when a person is sleeping, and upright acid reflux occurs when a person is awake. Both types of acid reflux result from a combination of dietary, genetic, and environmental factors. With supine acid reflux, a person's sleeping position can trigger discomfort.

Symptoms & Warning Signs

Chronic heartburn is the major symptom of acid reflux. Other symptoms include burning in the chest area and throat, difficulty in swallowing, and chest pain when bending, eating, or lying down. The person suffering from acid reflux can also have a sensation of food being stuck in the throat or upper chest. Swallowing and breathing are typically left unimpaired, but the person will have the feeling that something isn't going all the way down. Respiratory problems are other common side effects.

Causes & Risk Factors

Acid reflux is common and can result from a variety of causes. For most patients, the problem is related to a problem with the muscles that connect the esophagus to the stomach. Eating habits, dietary habits, and overall health are also common symptoms. Many pregnant women experience symptoms of acid reflux.

Prevention & Treatment

Dietary changes can help ease symptoms and prevent acid reflux episodes. Medications including acid suppressants, proton pumps, and antacids are commonly prescribed for chronic or persistent cases. Some serious cases require surgery.

Tests & Diagnosis

A medical professional will make a diagnosis based on symptoms. Severe cases might require additional tests in order to assess long-term or permanent damage. A common test is an endoscopy, which involves inserting a tube down the throat for the doctor to visually examine the area.