Almost everyone will experience occasional heartburn or acid reflux at some point in their lifetime. But if burning chest pain and an unpleasant sour taste in your mouth has become a regular occurance after you eat, GERD (or gastroesophageal reflux disease) may be to blame.
Here, Kimberly Tosch, M.D., a gastroenterologist at Henry Ford Health explains what GERD is, how it affects you and what to do about it.
How GERD Differs From Occasional Acid Reflux
An acid reflux flare may be triggered by eating specific foods - causing some stomach acid to flow back up into your esophagus. GERD is a more chornic form of acid reflux caused by a weakening of the valve at the bottom of your esophagus (lower seophageal sphincter). This causes stomach contents to rise up into the esophagus more frequently.
With both conditions, you might experience a burning pain in your chest shortly after eating. The acid in your stomach is why you might taste vomit in a burp after eating or when laying down too soon after a meal.
While anymore can develop GERD, it is especially common among people with excess weight or women who are pregnant. The changes in your body can increase pressure on the abdomen, making it easier for stomach acid to get in the esophagus.
“Fortunately, for people that have an abnormal amount of reflux throughout the day, there are medication and lifestyle modifications that can help,” reassures Dr. Tosch.
Tips For Treating Acid Reflux
The severity of your condition will depend on which treatment method is right for you. Your doctor might suggest:
- Using over-the-counter antacid medications (like Prilosec)
- Avoiding eating before bed
- Propping your head up with a pillow when you sleep
- Eliminating foods and drinks that trigger your symptoms
Avoid these foods to prevent acid reflux
To prevent acid reflux, Dr. Tosch recommends avoiding:
- Acidic foods (like tomatoes or oranges)
- Spicy foods
- Food with higher levels of fat
- Excessive amounts of caffeine
- Alcohol
Managing Acid Reflux
The Dangers Of Untreated GERD
As common as acid reflux is, it is important to know how to treat it and what could happen if you ignore the symptoms. Dr. Tosch warns that chronic, untreated GERD can cause serious complications.
Over time, recurring acid reflux can damage the lining of the esophagus. This inflammation condition is called esophagitis.
“In some cases, this chronic inflammation can permanently change the lining of the esophagus,” says Dr. Tosch. “This can lead to permanent damage of the esophagus called Barrett’s esophagus, which puts you at an increased risk of developing esophageal cancer.”
If you are experiencing acid reflux more than twice a week, see your doctor to determine if you have GERD. This way you can take the necessary steps to protect yourself against more serious medical conditions in the future.
Reviewed by Dr. Kimberly Tosch, a gastroenterologist who sees patients at Henry Ford Hospital and Henry Ford Medical Center – Lakeside.
