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GERD - Acid Reflux

Heartburn is a common symptom caused by stomach acid backing up into the esophagus. It is often described as a burning feeling, rising from the stomach into the chest. Occasional heartburn can be treated with over-the-counter medicines like antacids and may not require medical attention.

Acid reflux disease (GERD) may be mistaken for occasional heartburn because heartburn is its most common symptom! But unlike occasional heartburn, the heartburn symptoms of acid reflux disease usually occur 2 or more days a week for at least 3 months and can damage your esophagus. Gerd Screener

Acid reflux disease occurs when the reflux of stomach acid into the esophagus is frequent enough to impact your daily life and/or damage the esophagus. At the bottom of your esophagus is a muscle called the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), which normally opens and closes allowing food to enter. It also prevents the acid in your stomach from backing up into your esophagus. With GERD, the LES opens at inappropriate times, allowing acid from the stomach to get into the esophagus, where it doesn't belong.

Acid reflux disease can also lead to more serious medical conditions that require hospitalization and even surgery. These problems include damage to the lining of the esophagus, including Erosive Esophagitis. In some acid reflux patients, acid can be regurgitated into the lungs, causing wheezing or cough. Acid reflux in the throat can cause sore throat. If acid reaches the mouth, it can dissolve the enamel of the teeth.

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