Acid reflux, also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), is a common condition that occurs when stomach acid flows back up into the esophagus. Symptoms of acid reflux can include heartburn, a sour or bitter taste in the back of the throat, chest pain, difficulty swallowing, a dry cough, and even regurgitation of food or sour liquid.
If you experience one or more of these symptoms on a regular basis, it’s important to consult with your physician to determine the cause. To diagnose acid reflux, your doctor may perform a physical exam and order tests, including an endoscopy, which is a procedure that allows them to look inside your esophagus, stomach, and small intestine. They may also recommend a pH monitoring test, which measures the amount of acid in your esophagus.
Treating acid reflux typically involves lifestyle modifications, such as avoiding foods and beverages that trigger symptoms, eating smaller meals, and avoiding lying down right after eating. In some cases, your doctor may prescribe medications to help control the symptoms of acid reflux.
It’s important to remember that if you think you may have acid reflux, it is important to seek medical advice to determine the cause. With the right combination of lifestyle changes and medications, many people are able to find relief from their symptoms and manage their condition.