Many people ask the question, what are the symptoms of acid reflux? Acid reflux disease, commonly known as GERD, is a condition affecting millions of people. Acid reflux disease occurs when stomach acid - used for digestion - repeatedly backs up, or refluxes, into the esophagus. The lower esophageal sphincter (LES), which is located at the bottom of the esophagus, creates a barrier between the stomach and esophagus.
If the LES doesnt close tightly enough or relaxes too often, powerful stomach acid can repeatedly back up into the esophagus. Unlike the stomach, which has a special lining protecting it from the acid, the esophagus is unprotected. The esophagus is more sensitive to stomach acid and, if it is repeatedly exposure to stomach acid, may become irritated and damaged.
What Are The Symptoms Of Acid Reflux
One of the key symptoms of acid reflux is heartburn, a painful irritation and burning feeling. Many people get heartburn on occasion, and though its painful, its also quite normal. Persistent heartburn, like two or three days a week, could lead to acid reflux disease.
When asking the question, what are the symptoms of acid reflux?, you must consider many possibilities. Here are some of the other symptoms: a sour taste in your mouth, caused by refluxing acid, difficulty swallowing, persistent coughing, hoarseness, belching or regurgitation, an upset stomach, and even chest pain that is not related to your heart. If you are feeling one or more of these symptoms on a frequent basis, then you should consult your doctor.
