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.
What are my options?
Non-medical treatment may include: losing weight, quitting smoking, limiting
irritating foods like citrus and spices, eating smaller meals, and elevating
the head while lying down. Your doctor will also talk to you about prescribing
medicines designed to decrease GERD. In some cases surgery might be required
(National Jewish Medical and Research
Center).
If you have any of the symptoms described above and suspect you may have
GERD, get to your doctor for treatment as soon as possible to prevent further
damage to your esophagus.
The organizations and websites listed at the bottom of this page will also help
give you more information. Beware of some websites run by pharmaceutical
companies, the information may be biased.