Some common Symptoms of Acid Reflux

Acid reflux symptoms occur when acid and food travel from the stomach into the esophagus, causing pain and discomfort. The esophagus is the tube that connects the mouth to the stomach. The acidic mixture burns the ill-equipped esophagus, causing acid reflux symptoms to occur. Acid reflux can occur sporadically, rather than daily. However, when the symptoms do occur, they can infect a person's life with pain. Acid reflux is considered a life-long condition, and continuous treatment will be needed. The following are common symptoms of acid reflux.

Heartburn

This is one of the most common acid reflux symptoms. Caused by the actual burning of the esophagus, heartburn feels like a burning sensation within the chest. Heartburn generally occurs after eating either large meals or trigger foods, and often when lying down.

Regurgitation

Regurgitation is an unfortunate symptom of acid reflux. This occurs when the acid and food mixture is propelled up the esophagus, rather than lying within the esophagus. Being that the mixture is very acidic, burning and stinging occur where the mixture has traveled. Often, pieces of food itself find their way back into the mouth as well.

Nausea

Though less common, nausea is also a symptom of acid reflux. Nausea is generally diagnosed as a symptom once all other possible causes of the nausea are discredited.

Dysphagia or Odynophagia

After long term damage to the esophagus has occurred, dysphagia or odynophagia can occur. Dysphagia is the medical term for the process of difficulty swallowing. Odynophagia is painful swallowing. As one might imagine, having either one or both of these symptoms can be enough to make a person afraid to eat, fearful of the pain or difficulty that might occur..

Problems Breathing

The mouth is connected to both the esophagus, as well as the larynx. While the esophagus is the tube that connects the mouth to the stomach, the larynx is the tube that connects the mouth to the lungs. During the process of acid reflux, the acidic material that has entered the upper esophagus may be inhaled or aspirated into the lungs. Symptoms caused by the aspiration of such materials include coughing, wheezing, and even pneumonia.

Oral Symptoms

Especially after repeated regurgitations, oral problems may occur. These include irritation of the mouth and gums, tooth decay from the acid, unpleasant taste, and the feeling of excessive saliva building up in the mouth.

Barrett's Esophagus

Barrett's Esophagus is a serious complication of untreated acid reflux symptoms. When the acidic mixture has repeatedly traveled up and down the esophagus, cell changes within the esophagus can occur. Ten percent of those afflicted with Barrett's Esophagus develop esophageal cancer. Therefore, it is important for those with acid reflux, especially those with Barrett's Esophagus to receive periodic medical exams to ensure that esophageal cancer does not occur.

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