What is Heartburn GERD

Several terms are used to describe the condition that most of us refer to as heartburn. So to begin with, let's define what acid reflux, heartburn and GERD are.

Acid reflux occurs when stomach acid come back from the stomach into the esophagus. The bruning that occurs when this acid irritates the lining of esophagus is called heartburn and chronic heartburn (two to three times per week) is called GERD.

There's usually no doubt about if you have had a bout of heartburn or not. Common signs include:

• Recurrent heartburn
• pain or discomfort with acid when lying down
• frequently waking up with heartburn at night
• sour taste or stomach acid coming up in the mouth

If you experience thse symptoms, see your doctor and gret your condition diagnosed.

There are many things that could lead to heartburn GERD and food is a main contributor. A diet high in fatty foods, dairy products, spicy foods, tomatoes products, and caffeine and citrus is a leading cause of frequent heartburn and GERD.

General eating habits contribute as well. Many people consume fast foods on the go and drink large amounts of caffeine and carbonated drinks. Our population suffers from easy access to a lot of great tasting foods. Over eating as well contributes to heartburn/GERD. It is important as well not to lie down right after eating.

There are many who are more susceptible to heartburn/GERD. These include pregnant women, people with ulcers and stomachs who create an excess of acid. Others at risk for heartburn/GERD are those with obesity and or diabetes. Various types of medications such as certain types of pain medicines are at risk for heartburn/GERD as well.

If your doctor suspects that you may be suffering from heartburn/GERD they may recommend several different types of tests including a barium x-ray or an endoscopyl.

The barium x-ray doesn't take too long, but involves drinking a barium solution. THink of it as an extra think yogurt drink - without the flavor! You'll be x-rayed standing up and lying down, and it's pain free.

The endoscopy will involve you having an anasthetic while a lighted tube is put down yorur throat. You don't feel anything before or after, apart form the affects of the anasthetic of course. Having had both procedures, I can say that neither were troublesome and both very worthwhile.

There are several types of heartburn gerd medication. Your doctor is the best person to recommend which to take but it's best to be informed about the causes of heartburn before making a decision.