Acid Reflux - Symptoms, Causes, Treatment & Prevention

Acid Reflux Symptoms

The most regular sign of acid reflux is discomfort or a burning sensation. This occurs initially in the stomach & moves to the lower chest area or throat. It is known by most people as heartburn. Regurgitation can also be a symptom. This is where a sour or bitter-tasting acid backs up into the mouth or throat.

Common Symptoms of Acid Reflux:

• A bloated sensation
• Persistent hiccups
• Frequent burping
• Bad breath
• A feeling of nausea
• Unexplained weight loss
• Dental deterioration
• Hoarseness, wheezing, a dry cough or sore throat
• Vomit that contains blood or stools that are black or bloody
• A sensation that food is lodged in the throat, known as Dysphagia

Acid Reflux Causes

Acid reflux happens when the valve at the entrance to the stomach - the lower esophageal sphincter - doesn’t do its job properly.  The valve, a ring of muscle, normally closes as soon as food passes through. But if it opens too often, or doesn't close all the way, acid produced by the stomach can find its way into the esophagus, resulting in discomfort. A stomach abnormality known as a hiatal hernia can be a frequent cause of acid reflux disease. This can happen when the upper part of the stomach & the lower esophageal sphincter move above the diaphragm, which usually helps keep acid in our stomach. A hiatal hernia allows acid to move into the esophagus, resulting in acid reflux symptoms. 

Common causes of acid reflux are:

• Acidic food & drink like coffee, tomatoes, citrus, oily food, spicy food
• Smoking
• Stress
• Pregnancy
• Being overweight or obese

Acid Reflux Risk Factors

Risk Factors of Acid Reflux Include

Acid reflux isn’t always avoidable, but there are common risk factors that can prompt its onset. These can include:

• Consuming a large or rich meal
• Bending over at the waist or lying on your back soon after eating
• Eating snacks shortly before going to bed
• Pregnancy
• Smoking
• Beverages such as fizzy drinks, alcohol, tea or coffee
• Obesity or an overweight condition
• Blood pressure medication
• The taking of ibuprofen, aspirin & certain muscle relaxants
• Foods types including chocolate, garlic, onions, citrus fruits & spicy or fatty foods can be a trigger

If acid reflux is causing you severe pain or discomfort on a regular basis, please consult a Medcare specialist.