When stomach acid travels backward, or refluxes, into the back of your throat, or esophagus, it is medically referred to as gastroesophageal reflux. Most people experience gastroesophageal reflux at one time or another. If reflux occurs more than twice per week or significantly interferes with your daily life, you may have a chronic form of the condition called gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD.
Physiology
When you swallow food, it normally travels down your esophagus and into your stomach through a band of muscle called the lower esophageal sphincter. The muscles of the lower esophageal sphincter relax to allow food to pass through it and then contract again to prevent food and stomach acid from traveling backward into the esophagus. Those with GERD have a lower esophageal sphincter that does not close properly. As a result, stomach acid travels into the esophagus, irritating the esophageal lining and causing uncomfortable and painful symptoms.
Symptoms
Gastroesophageal reflux disease is often characterized by heartburn, a burning sensation in the chest that may radiate up to your throat. Heartburn may be accompanied by a bitter taste in the mouth, chest pain, difficulty swallowing, dry cough, sore throat, throat hoarseness and increased production of mucus in the throat. People with GERD also may have the sensation of a lump in the throat, a condition called globus.
Medical Treatment
Treatment for acid reflux usually lasts six to 12 weeks and involves medication as well as lifestyle changes. Several different medications for GERD are available over the counter. These medications include antacids, which neutralize stomach acid; H-2 receptor blockers, which decrease acid production; and proton-pump inhibitors, which block stomach acid production as well as allow the esophageal lining to heal.
Lifestyle Changes
In addition to medication, lifestyle changes are also an important aspect of treatment for GERD. Avoid foods that cause symptoms. These foods, called trigger foods, may differ among individuals, but they commonly include coffee, spicy foods, fatty foods, tomato juice, citrus juice, chocolate, mints and alcohol. You may help reduce your symptoms by avoiding lying down within two hours after meals and elevating your head during sleep. Tight clothes can increase the pressure on your abdomen and trigger symptoms. Wear loose-fitting clothing and avoid belts. Lose weight if you are overweight. Excess weight puts pressure on the stomach, increasing symptoms of GERD.
