Acid reflux is a condition that occurs when stomach acid flows backward into the esophagus, which is a tube that connects the stomach and the throat. It is also known as gastroesophageal reflux, according to the Mayo Clinic. The acid irritates the lining of the esophagus, causing reflux symptoms.
Significance
Approximately 1 out of 14 people in the United States is affected by daily acid reflux, according to acidrefluxtreatment.org.
Symptoms
Symptoms of acid reflux may include heartburn, tasting sour liquid or regurgitated food at the back of your mouth, trouble swallowing, chest pain and coughing, especially while lying down.
Identification
While acid reflux and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) are not necessarily the same thing, acid reflux can progress to GERD, which is a more severe and chronic form of acid reflux, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Causes
The esophagus has a small muscle around the bottom of it, which opens enough to let food and liquid to go into the stomach, and then closes again. When this muscle is weakened, or relaxes when it should not, the acid in the stomach can flow into the esophagus, causing reflux symptoms.
Treatment for Mild Reflux
Over-the-counter initial treatment for occasional reflux can include antacids like Mylanta and Tums; medications like Pepcid AC or Zantac, which reduce acid; and medications that lower amounts of acid and heal the esophagus, like Prevacid and Prilosec. Making alterations in diet and lifestyle can also alleviate mild reflux.
Treatment for Chronic Reflux
For more serious and chronic reflux, the above medications are available in prescription strength from a physician. Another medication option are drugs that help strengthen the lower esophageal sphincter, the muscle that is at the bottom of the esophagus. Surgery may correct various problems with the esophagus to help relieve reflux.
