Acid reflux is a condition that is caused by the contents of the stomach (which are very acidic) escaping the stomach and refluxing up into the esophagus. Acid reflux typically causes a burning pain in the chest that can be made worse by eating large meals or by lying down after eating. It can cause damage to the esophagus as well as lead to an increased risk of esophageal cancer. Because this condition is fairly common, there are many different resources for obtaining information about acid reflux.
Step 1
Ask your doctor for more information. Most physicians can give you pamphlets or information sheets on acid reflux, as well as help you understand what acid reflux is and how it relates to other conditions, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease. If your doctor does not have information, your local hospital most likely will.
Step 2
Contact the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. This service, which is maintained by the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, offers an extensive database of a number of disorders, including acid reflux. The clearinghouse has information pages available online about acid reflux. You can also have information sent to you from its catalog of publications.
Step 3
Utilize electronic databases such as Medline and the Mayo Clinic's website. These two websites have extensive resources devoted to many different diseases, including acid reflux.
