Acid Reflux Can Cause Pain and Negative Long Term Health Effects
 Acid reflux, also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease, is an uncomfortable condition that occurs when partially digested foods or liquids leave the stomach and enter the esophagus. This causes irritation because stomach acid also makes its way into the esophagus. This generally occurs because the lower esophageal sphincter isn't closing completely, leaving an opening for food and stomach acid to return to the esophagus. Left untreated, acid reflux can lead to Barrett's Esophagus, which is marked by changes in the color and structure of cells in the esophagus. This condition is dangerous because it can be a precursor for some forms of esophageal cancer.
Acid reflux often comes with several symptoms, alerting the sufferer to a problem so they can then seek medical attention. Some symptoms associated with acid reflux include:
- Burning in the chest that increases when lying or bending down, often described as heartburn
- Belching
- Nausea, vomiting
- Sour or bitter taste that follows belching
- Sore throat
- Coughing and difficulty swallowing
These symptoms are generally experienced by acid reflux sufferers after eating a large meal and they increase with bending or lying down. There are a variety of medical treatments on the market, including over-the-counter antacids, prescription medications and even a surgery, called fundoplication, which is used as a last resort to treat acid reflux. However, there are also a variety of lifestyle changes a sufferer can make to reduce uncomfortable bouts of reflux. Most basically, those with reflux should avoid foods and drinks that produce a lot of acid or irritate the esophageal lining such as citrus juices and fruits, fried foods, fatty meats, high-fat dairy products like ice cream and sour cream, and alcohol. Experts also recommend that reflux sufferers eat smaller meals that are less likely to stretch the stomach and its opening to the esophagus. It's also advisable to eat meals well before bedtime since lying down allows food and stomach acid to easily travel back into the esophagus.
These lifestyle changes can greatly reduce the discomfort associated with acid reflux, but even if they have, you should contact your doctor if you think you have this condition. He or she can provide you with an accurate diagnosis and ensure you're taking the proper steps to avoid long-term complications.
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