One of the fastest growing disorders in this day and age is GERD.
""Gastroesophageal"" refers to the stomach and esophagus, and ""reflux"" means to flow back or return.
What is Heartburn and its relation to GERD?
Heartburn, also called acid indigestion, is the most common symptom of GERD.
It can last up to two hours and is often worse after eating.
It is less likely that heartburn pain is associated with physical activity.
The pain of heartburn can be confused with the pain associated with heart disease or heart attack.
Severe heartburn may be due to a serious medical condition, such as rupture of an abdominal organ or heart attack.
What causes GERD?
It is believed that GERD is the result of a condition called hiatal hernia, which affects the lower esophageal sphincter (or LES).
The lower esophageal sphincter, a muscle located at the base of the esophagus, opens to allow food in and closes to keep stomach acid out.
Symptoms of GERD though may resemble other conditions or medical problems.
What are some of the things that contribute to GERD?
Mainly, one's lifestyle which includes:
* Being overweight.
* Eating certain foods such as citrus fruits, mint, chocolate and fatty foods and spicy.
* Alcohol.
* The use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like aspirin and ibuprofen.
* Ulcer disease.
heartburn reflux
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