You might dismiss a burning sensation in your chest, or heartburn, as the occasional consequence of indulging in spicy foods, greasy fried foods or an extra cup of coffee. However, heartburn, chest pressure and regurgitation of bitter stomach fluids two or more times a week may be symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD. The American College of Gastroenterology states that GERD requires medical treatment and lifestyle modifications to prevent more serious complications.
Causes
When the ring of muscles that controls the opening between your stomach and esophagus fails to close properly after you eat or drink, stomach acids and partially digested food may rise up from your stomach into your esophagus, or food canal. Smoking, obesity, pregnancy, asthma, diabetes and delayed stomach emptying may cause GERD. A hiatal hernia--a condition in which part of your stomach protrudes from the opening in your diaphragm where your esophagus and stomach meet--may contribute to GERD by loosening the muscular opening between your esophagus and stomach.
Estimates
More than 60 million Americans may have heartburn once a month, with pregnant women and the elderly suffering from acid indigestion most frequently, according to the ACG. The ACG estimates that more than 15 million Americans may experience heartburn daily. Many of these people treat their symptoms with over-the-counter antacid medications. If you are using over-the-counter medications to relieve heartburn or indigestion, the ACG recommends that you consult your health-care provider about developing a treatment plan that includes prescription-strength medications to reduce your symptoms.
Complications
If you leave GERD untreated, the reflux of acids into your esophagus may damage its lining and cause bleeding, scarring and narrowing of the canal. Frequent exposure to digestive acids may also lead to Barrett's esophagus, a condition that increases your risk for esophageal cancer. The prevalence of GERD does not translate into an equally high rate of esophageal cancer. Dr. Joel H. Rubenstein of the University of Michigan Department of Internal Medicine estimates that while about one in four people in the United States have GERD symptoms, only about 8,000 cases of esophageal cancer are diagnosed in the U.S. each year.
Prevention
Prescription-strength medications and lifestyle modifications may help relieve the painful symptoms of GERD. Mayo Clinic recommends that you lose weight if necessary and elevate the head of your bed about 6 to 10 inches to prevent acid reflux while you're sleeping. Avoiding tight belts or pants that constrict your abdomen, remaining upright after meals and quitting smoking may also help relieve your symptoms. Restricting common dietary triggers like fatty foods, spicy foods, acidic foods, onions, mint and coffee may reduce your acid reflux.
