Gastric Reflux Symptoms

Gastric reflux, also known as Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) or acid reflux disease, is a non severe condition caused due to abnormal function of the lower esophageal sphincter muscles. This condition occurs when the acid in the stomach seeps back in the esophagus causing irritation and discomfort in the throat. It is also one of the most common conditions experienced by people of all age groups. Gastric reflux can trigger off due to a variety of reasons. One of the most significant causes of this disease is improper eating habits. Eating spicy, heavy and larger meals at night, excess of spicy and fried foods, lying down or bending immediately after having a meal, etc. are the prominent gastric reflux causes. On the other hand, smoking, alcoholism and obesity also contribute to the cause of this disease. Although it is not a medical emergency, it is essential to get the condition treated before it turns chronic. So, how do you know whether you are suffering from acid reflux disease or not? Let us take a look at the gastric reflux symptoms in detail.

Symptoms of Gastric Reflux

Gastric reflux symptoms are easier to identify as they are unique in nature. The following are the symptoms of acid reflux in case of children and adults.

... in Children
It is essential to look out for gastric or acid reflux symptoms in toddlers and children as this condition causes a lot of discomfort in them. The following are the acid reflux symptoms in children and infants:

• Irritability
• Loss of appetite
• Vomiting
• Nausea
• Heartburn
• Upset stomach
• Constant cough
• Stuffiness
• Wheezing
• Crying
• Pain in chest

... in Adults
Heartburn is one of the most prominent symptoms of gastric reflux in adults. It should be noted that heartburn and chest pain are also symptoms of heart diseases and hence, one needs to look out for other symptoms as well. The following are the symptoms of gastric reflux observed in adults.

• Nausea
• Dyspepsia
• Vomiting
• Indigestion
• Abdominal pain
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Difficulty in swallowing
• Regurgitation

The aforementioned symptoms are also experienced by pregnant women. Pregnant women are found to suffer from gastric reflux frequently and it is considered as one of the most common conditions experienced during pregnancy. One should note that chronic gastric reflux can lead to ulcers or esophageal cancer. Hence, it is essential to look out for these symptoms in order to diagnose and treat acid reflux as soon as possible! There are several medications like antacids, H2 blockers and PP inhibitors that help in acid reflux treatment. Although these medications give temporary relief, they are effective in treating gastric reflux symptoms.

However, one should note that it is essential to make some changes in the lifestyle in order to treat and prevent gastric reflux disease. Firstly, it is necessary to make changes in diet and eating habits. One should have smaller and lighter meals rather than large ones. One should also try to stay away from spicy and fatty foods to prevent the occurrence of acid reflux. On the other hand, one should control weight and abstain from smoking and alcoholism in order to prevent gastric reflux disease.

This was a brief information on gastric reflux symptoms and treatment. It should be noted that this condition can be prevented by merely changing one's lifestyle. It is also advisable to treat this condition before it turns chronic and severe. Lastly, as a concluding note, it can be said that a balanced diet and proper exercise helps in keeping gastric reflux disease at bay. Take care!