GERD Symptoms

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), commonly known as acid reflux disease, is a common gastrointestinal condition which is experienced by a large number of people all over the world. Due to specific reasons the acid from the stomach seeps back into the esophagus or in the throat. More often than not, this condition is experienced by people at night after the meals. What are the causes of acid reflux?

GERD Causes
GERD is most prominently caused due to improper function of the Lower Esophageal Sphincter (LES) muscles. These muscles contract and relax to open or close the opening of the esophagus into the stomach. Sometimes, due to the malfunction of these muscles, they do not close completely which result in seeping of the acid from the stomach back into the esophagus. A person's diet also plays an important role in causing GERD. Having very spicy and hot meals at improper time or very late at night can cause acid reflux or GERD. On the other hand, if a person lies down, lifts something or bends in forward direction immediately after having a meal, he experiences acid reflux. Similarly, smoking, consumption of alcohol and obesity are also considered as major factors for causing GRED.

GERD Symptoms
The symptoms of GERD vary according to the person's age. GERD symptoms in adults are slightly different from those in children. Similarly the symptoms in case of children as different from those observed in case of infants. Let us have a look at symptoms of acid reflux disease in detail.

GERD Symptoms in Adults
Heartburn is the most prominent symptom of GERD. The person experiences burning sensation in his chest due to the strong stomach acid. Therefore among all GERD symptoms, chest pain is the most important one. Sometimes while explaining GERD symptoms, back pain is also mentioned by some of the patients. It is rare and may or may not be observed. The following are the other symptoms of acid reflux in adults.

• Sour taste in the mouth
• Difficulty in swallowing
• Sore throat
• Hoarseness
• Nausea
• Cough

GERD Symptoms in Children
Vomiting is a common symptom of acid reflux in children. Apart from these, the following are the other symptoms of GERD seen in children.

• Sensation of lump in throat
• Tightness in throat
• Cough
• Difficulty in breathing
• Difficulty in swallowing
• Chest pain

GERD Symptoms in Infants
Vomiting and constant coughing are the major GERD symptoms in infants. In rare cases, certain severe symptoms like bleeding in the esophagus or poor growth are also observed. Other signs and symptoms of GERD in infants include:

• Difficulty in breathing
• Loss of appetite
• Irritation
• Refusal to eat
• Crying

GERD Treatment
If a person experiences any of the above symptoms of acid reflux, he can take over-the-counter medications as they can be useful in treating the discomfort. However, if the symptoms persist for more than a couple of days even after taking these medications, you need to consult the doctor. Sometimes, if the above mentioned symptoms are accompanied by other symptoms like weight loss, improper bowel movement, etc. he should visit the doctor immediately. GERD can be effectively treated by several ways. Antacids help in overcoming the discomfort and nausea. Whereas, medications like H-2-receptor blockers and Proton pump inhibitors help in reducing acid production. If a person suffers from GERD persistently, he can undergo a surgery which helps in tightening of the lower esophageal sphincter muscles. There are several effective natural remedies for acid reflux.

This was all on GERD symptoms and treatment. One should remember that this is not a severe disorder and can be treated easily. On the other hand, it can also be avoided by following certain precautions. One should not lie down or bend immediately after meals. One should have a healthy meal at regular times everyday and stop smoking and consumption of alcohol. Following these methods can ensure a long and a healthy life for every person!