Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a disorder in which acid-containing contents in your stomach seep back up into your esophagus, the tube that connects your neck to your stomach. When food reaches your stomach, a valve at the end of your esophagus called the lower esophageal sphincter fails to seal correctly, causing acid reflux. Acid backwash then travels up your esophagus, through your throat, and into your mouth, leaving you with a sour taste.
Nearly everyone experiences acid reflux at some point in their lives. It’s very natural to have acid reflux and heartburn sometimes. However, if you experience acid reflux/heartburn more than twice a week for several weeks, you may have GERD. When you have GERD, your esophageal tissue is damaged by stomach acid on a daily basis. The tissue is eventually ruined. You can observe how chronic acid reflux and heartburn affects your everyday eating and sleeping patterns if you experience it. Contact your healthcare provider if GERD is making your daily life difficult. Although GERD isn’t fatal, the persistent inflammation of the esophagus it causes can lead to more serious complications. To relieve your symptoms, you may require stronger prescription drugs or possibly surgery.
Read on to find out the symptoms of this painful condition.
1. Heartburn after Eating
Heartburn is a burning sensation in the chest that occurs directly beneath the breastbone. After eating, in the evening, or when lying down or bending over, the discomfort is usually greater. Heartburn is typical and should not be cause for concern, unless it is chronic as with GERD. The majority of people can control their heartburn symptoms with lifestyle adjustments and over-the-counter drugs. Heartburn that becomes more common or disrupts your everyday routine might be a sign of a more serious problem that requires medical attention.
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