Acid Reflux Disease, known as Gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD, is a common condition where the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) weakens and gastric acids reflux from the stomach into the esophagus. Even though it is common it has several distressing symptoms and it could lead to serious ailments such as ulcers, respiratory infections and esophageal cancer if it is left untreated.

The most common symptom of GERD is heartburn that is persistant, painful and occurs in the lower esophagus, behind the sternum. However, there are also other symptoms of reflux and all symptoms are experienced in connection with heavy lifting, after eating a large meal, bending over and lying on your back or on your right side. Other symptoms include:

• Chest Pain
• Asthma, hoarseness and dental erosion due to the acidic juices making their way to the throat and mouth as well as the air passages into the lungs
• A chronic cough or recurrent pneumonia
• Difficulty swallowing
• Regurgitation of acid into the throat while bending over or sleeping

Symptoms of acid reflux that are experienced in adults are also experienced in infants and small children. However, they may also experience other symptoms. Among these symptoms include:

• Irritability
• Failure to thrive
• Infant arching his or her back while feeding
• Posturing episodes that are often mistaken for seizures
• Recurrent abdominal pain
• Weight loss
• Loss of appetite
• Sleep Apnea

Even though there are no known causes for GERD, there are contributing factors to the disease. Among these contributing factors include:

• Obesity
• Antihistimines and other medications
• Alcohol and tobacco use
• A diet consisting of fried or fatty foods, dairy, garlic and onions and chocolate, citrus foods, tomatoes, spicy foods and mint flavorings as well as beverages containing caffeine.
• Other conditions such as pregnancy, rapid weight gain, Hiatal hernia or diabetes
• Eating large meals or soon before bedtime

Reflux symptoms can be releved by making simple lifestyle changes such as changing your diet, losing weight and changing your sleeping position. However, if your symptoms are peresistent and if it interferes with your work, sleep or other activities, it is advisable that you see your physician. Go to the nearest emergency room at your local hospital imediately if you are experiencing vomiting blood, difficulty swallowing, dark and tarry stools, or severe chest pain or pressure, especially if it radiates to your arm, neck, or back.