What is Acid Reflux and is it the Same as Heartburn?
I have suffered from heartburn off an on for quite awhile now. I have found ways of dealing with it without using medication. But, what is acid reflux and is it just another term for heartburn or is it something else?
Actually, I found out that heartburn is a symptom. In fact, it is one of the main symptoms. In most instances it is a result of poor digestion. So, if you eat too fast without properly chewing your food then you may be a candidate for this condition.
Often the pain or discomfort can radiate into the throat, which can cause you to belch or almost feel like vomiting. It is really an unpleasant feeling, take my word for it.
So, since heartburn is a symptom, what are the other symptoms that you should be aware of? Keep in mind that not everyone will experience the same symptoms. I didn't experience all of these symptoms, just a few of them.
Regurgitation
I briefly mentioned this one above. When you experience the bitter or sour acid backing up into your mouth or throat, this is considered regurgitation.
Hiccups
Frequent hiccups that continue for long periods of time are considered a symptom of reflux. This is a symptom that I have not experienced at all.
Belching
Frequent belching or burping is associated with acid reflux. This is one symptom that certain foods really brought on.
Dry Cough
A dry cough or chronic sore throat is also considered to be a symptom. This is not a symptom that I experienced.
Nausea
Some people will experience nausea as a reflux symptom. Again, this is not one that I myself ever experienced.
Now that we have an idea of some of the symptoms associated with acid reflux and that heartburn is one of those symptoms, what exactly causes this condition?
When I first started to experience the symptoms of acid reflux, I started taking antacid tablets. They seemed to work in the short term. However, over time I needed to make changes to my diet and lifestyle if I was going to be able to get long lasting relief from the heartburn and acid reflux.
So, what is acid reflux and what should you do about it?
The important thing to do is not ignore it. I found out through my doctor that if you do not treat your acid reflux that it could get worse and become severe acid reflux, which would cause more problems with your esophagus.
Actually, I found out that heartburn is a symptom. In fact, it is one of the main symptoms. In most instances it is a result of poor digestion. So, if you eat too fast without properly chewing your food then you may be a candidate for this condition.
Often the pain or discomfort can radiate into the throat, which can cause you to belch or almost feel like vomiting. It is really an unpleasant feeling, take my word for it.
So, since heartburn is a symptom, what are the other symptoms that you should be aware of? Keep in mind that not everyone will experience the same symptoms. I didn't experience all of these symptoms, just a few of them.
Regurgitation
I briefly mentioned this one above. When you experience the bitter or sour acid backing up into your mouth or throat, this is considered regurgitation.
Hiccups
Frequent hiccups that continue for long periods of time are considered a symptom of reflux. This is a symptom that I have not experienced at all.
Belching
Frequent belching or burping is associated with acid reflux. This is one symptom that certain foods really brought on.
Dry Cough
A dry cough or chronic sore throat is also considered to be a symptom. This is not a symptom that I experienced.
Nausea
Some people will experience nausea as a reflux symptom. Again, this is not one that I myself ever experienced.
Now that we have an idea of some of the symptoms associated with acid reflux and that heartburn is one of those symptoms, what exactly causes this condition?
When I first started to experience the symptoms of acid reflux, I started taking antacid tablets. They seemed to work in the short term. However, over time I needed to make changes to my diet and lifestyle if I was going to be able to get long lasting relief from the heartburn and acid reflux.
So, what is acid reflux and what should you do about it?
The important thing to do is not ignore it. I found out through my doctor that if you do not treat your acid reflux that it could get worse and become severe acid reflux, which would cause more problems with your esophagus.
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