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Five Symptoms of Acid Reflux

Jul 16, 2017 Acid Reflux

Acid Reflux is a common condition where the sufferer encounters a burning sensation in their chest. It is caused by stomach acid travelling up through the oesophagus resulting in indigestion and heartburn. If you suffer more than two incidents in a week you may have GERD. Acid Reflux is triggered by a number of things including; excessive alcohol, ulcers, bacterial infections, stress, medication, a weakened immune system and certain types of food. If symptoms persist it may lead to serious illnesses including cancer of the oesophagus. Here is a description of the five main symptoms:-

Burning Sensation In Your Chest

Stomach acid is pretty potent and when it travels up your digestive tract it causes inflammation and irritation. The burning sensation in your chest is caused by the muscles in your oesophagus opening and allowing digestive juices to escape. Generally acid reflux occurs after eating and can make a slap up meal a very unpleasant experience indeed.

Chest Pain

The chest pain encountered when suffering acid reflux can sometimes be so intense that it can be mistaken for a heart attack. It is therefore important that you seek medical advice immediately to confirm that you are not suffering from a cardiac episode.

Dysphagia  (Difficulty Swallowing)

Sometimes inflammation caused by acid reflux can make Swallowing difficult and make you feel as if you have a lump in your throat. Being unable to swallow is actually quite scary and needs to be addressed if the problem persists.

Hacking Cough

Acid reflux can irritate the lungs causing them to to become inflamed.  This causes asthma type symptoms and the desire to cough the irritation away. If you find yourself coughing and neither have a cold or asthma acid reflux may be the cause.

Bitter Taste In Your Mouth

Sometimes stomach acid actually reaches your mouth and tastes extremely bitter. It is not only very unpleasant it could also damage the enamel on your teeth. In extreme cases you may feel nauseous and even vomit due to the influx of stomach acid.

Ways To Treat Acid Reflux

You can combat acid reflux by making lifestyle changes and in some cases taking medication to relieve the symptoms. By eating foods that are easy to digest, avoiding alcohol,  caffeine,  tobacco,  chocolate, spicy and fried food and drinks such as fruit juices that are high in citric acid you are less likely to trigger it.  Lifestyle changes such as eating slowly, avoiding stress, having plenty of rest, frequent exercise and drinking plenty of water can relieve the burning sensation. If you have acid reflux and would like further advice and a prescription for medication that will help to relieve it please visit our page for a consultation. If problems persist however you should endeavour to visit your doctor.

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