Acid reflux is a common digestive problem that can cause a range of unpleasant symptoms, including heartburn, chest pain, and a sour taste in the mouth. Although it is often possible to tell if you have acid reflux, the severity of the symptoms can vary from person to person.
Symptoms of Acid Reflux
The main symptom of acid reflux is heartburn, a burning sensation in the chest and throat. Other symptoms can include:
• A sour taste in the mouth
• Chest pain
• Difficulty swallowing
• A sensation of a lump in the throat
• Feeling sick
• Coughing
Causes of Acid Reflux
Acid reflux is usually caused by a weakened or damaged lower esophageal sphincter (LES). The LES is a ring of muscle at the bottom of the esophagus that normally closes tightly to keep stomach acid from flowing back up into the esophagus.
However, if the LES is weakened or damaged, stomach acid can flow back up into the esophagus, causing acid reflux. Common causes of a weakened or damaged LES include obesity, pregnancy, and smoking.
Diagnosing Acid Reflux
Your doctor may use a variety of tests to diagnose acid reflux, including an endoscopy, a barium swallow, and esophageal pH monitoring. An endoscopy is a procedure in which a flexible tube with a camera is inserted down the throat to examine the esophagus. A barium swallow involves drinking a liquid that coats the esophagus and allows it to be seen on an X-ray. Esophageal pH monitoring involves inserting a sensor into the esophagus to measure the amount of acid in the esophagus.
Treating Acid Reflux
Treatment for acid reflux depends on the severity of the symptoms. Mild cases may be managed with lifestyle changes, such as avoiding foods that trigger symptoms and eating smaller, more frequent meals.
Medications, such as antacids and proton-pump inhibitors, may also be used to reduce acid production. In more severe cases, a surgical procedure known as fundoplication may be necessary. Fundoplication involves wrapping part of the stomach around the lower esophagus to strengthen the LES.
Conclusion
Acid reflux is a common digestive problem that can cause a range of unpleasant symptoms, including heartburn, chest pain, and a sour taste in the mouth. Although it is often possible to tell if you have acid reflux, the severity of the symptoms can vary from person to person. Treatment for acid reflux depends on the severity of the symptoms and may include lifestyle changes, medications, or surgery.