HEARTBURN /GERD

 

Heartburn is very common; over 60 million Americans experience Heartburn at least once a month, some studies have even indicated that over 15 million Americans experience heartburn symptoms each day. The symptoms of heartburn also known as acid indigestion are more common among the elderly. People will experience heartburn symptoms when excessive amounts of acid reflux into the esophagus. Frequent heartburn is also known as GERD (Gastro esophageal reflux disease). It’s a physical condition in which acid from your stomach flows backward up into your throat (esophagus). Most people will have heartburn sometime during their life, however, the progression from mild heartburn to having heartburn regularly, several times a week, may be warning sign that you might have GERD. It affects People of every socioeconomic class, ethnic group and age. The incidence does however seem to increase

quite dramatically above the age of 40. More than 50 percent of those affected with GERD are between the ages of 45-64 in both male and female groups. Recent figures show that about 7 million people in the U.S. suffer from GERD. GERD is known in most European countries as GORD, due to the British spelling. Many people who have experienced heartburn describe it as a feeling of burning discomfort that moves up the neck and throat. Some also report a sudden rush of bitter acid or sour tasting acid regurgitation. Heartburn associated with warning signs such as food sticking, weight loss, low blood count, and might suggest that you may have Gastro esophageal reflux disease. You need to see a doctor who can better diagnose the severity of your condition. Heartburn is generally worse after meals, and is prevalent if you tend to have late meals just prior to lying down at night. To avoid heartburn try to avoid eating 2-3 hours before going to sleep. In many, changing your lifestyle, avoiding foods and beverages that trigger it, can control cases heartburn. Such foods and drink include: chocolate, coffee, peppermint, greasy or spicy foods, tomato products and alcoholic drinks. You may also experience heartburn during exercise if you’re bending over. If you smoke, try stopping. Studies show that cigarette smoking causes a variety of life threatening diseases, smoking has been shown to have harmful effects on all parts of the digestive system, and especially contributes to this common disorder heartburn. Over the counter Antacids are also available for use in mild or infrequent cases of heartburn.

Disclaimer: This information is provided as a general educational service, and should not be construed as medical advice, and is not intended to recommend any treatment plan to address the symptoms of heartburn or GERD. This information is freely available by calling 1-800-HRT-BURN, or you can log onto their web site at http://www.acg.gi.org. They have a very good 5-minute video available called  Heartburn Sufferers: STOP TAKING CHANCES. It’s Free for the asking.  

 

 

 

MEDICAL & HEALTH

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