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| Allergies |
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| Acid Reflux |
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| Anxiety |
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| Asthma | |
| Depression |
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| Migraine |
What is acid reflux syndrome?
Gastroesophageal reflux disease, commonly referred to as GERD, or acid reflux syndrome, is a condition in which the liquid content of the stomach regurgitates into the esophagus. The liquid can sometimes inflame and damage the lining of the esophagus although this is relatively rare, and occurs in a minority of patients. The regurgitated liquid usually contains acid and pepsin (an enzyme which helps with the breakdown of ingested food) that are produced by the stomach. The refluxed liquid may also contain bile that has backed-up into the stomach from the small intestine. Acid is believed to be the most injurious component of the refluxed liquid. Pepsin and bile also may injure the esophagus, but their role in the production of esophageal inflammation and damage (esophagitis) is not as clear as the role of acid.
Acid Reflux is a long term condition, in that once it begins, it's usually life-long. Once treatment for Acid Reflux Syndrome has begun, it usually will need to be continued indefinitely.
As is often the case, the body has ways to protect itself from the harmful effects of reflux and acid. For example, most reflux occurs during the day when individuals are upright. In the upright position, the refluxed liquid is more likely to flow back down into the stomach as a result of the earths gravity. Furthermore while individuals are awake, they repeatedly swallow, whether or not there is reflux. Each swallow carries any refluxed liquid back into the stomach. Finally, the salivary glands in the mouth produce saliva, which contains bicarbonate. The bicarbonate will neutralize any acid that remains in the esophagus.
What are the symptoms associated with acid reflux?
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