Every year in the United States, more than 5 million people are rushed to the hospital with chest pains. Most hospitals estimate that 60% of these patients are not suffering a heart attack, but are experiencing some of the more severe symptoms of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) or acid reflux. The people who are admitted to the emergency rooms have most likely been suffering these symptoms for an extended period of time. They could be you, experiencing what you believe to be frequent heartburn.

If you are one of those people suffering from 2 or more episodes of heartburn a week, take a close look at these symptoms. Without treatment GERD can cause other medical conditions such as erosive esophagitis (narrowing or ulceration of esophagus) and even esophageal cancer.

What is GERD?

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease is an abnormal amount of stomach contents backwashing into the esophagus. The reason this reflux is occurring is that the band of muscle between the stomach and esophagus, called the esophageal sphincter, does not work correctly (National Jewish Medical and Research Center).

What foods aggravate GERD?

Contrary to popular belief, it is not necessarily that turkey dinner you packed away that is causing your symptoms. Things which increase pressure on the stomach muscles, thus stressing the esophageal sphincter, are what increase symptoms. These things include: full stomach (possibly full of turkey), obesity, lying down, bending forward, lifting heavy objects, and pregnancy.

How do I know if I have GERD?

Your doctor is the only one who can accurately diagnose GERD. If you experience any of the following symptoms, you may want to make an appointment in the near future: heartburn, sour taste, chest pain, coughing/choking while reclining, sleep apnea or trouble breathing while asleep.