Understanding Heartburn or GERD

A common medical condition experienced by individuals today is heartburn. Heartburn is that medical condition in which the acid produced by the stomach flows backwards and into the inner lining of the esophagus.

This unnatural flow of stomach acid can be caused by a number of factors. Those factors can include diet, lifestyle choices and a weakened sphincter muscle that lies between the stomach and the esophagus.

In addition, if consulting with a doctor about this issue, the patient may be exposed to a situation associated with this medical condition. The acronym for this condition is known as GERD. Specifically GERD stands for gastroesophageal reflux disease.

Heartburn or GERD is prevalent in today’s society. Therefore, it is important to know what the symptoms are, what are the causes and the treatment plan for heartburn or GERD.

Symptoms

Heartburn or GERD is a very painful and unpleasant medical condition in which the acid from the stomach flows upward towards the mouth. This flow of acid burns the sensitive lining of the esophagus which in turn causes the burning sensation.

Generally, one experiences this pain beginning just underneath the sternum or breastbone and proceeds upward. In fact, many people who have heartburn or GERD experience the unpleasant and bitter taste of the gastric acid in their mouths.

Causes

The condition of heartburn or GERD is especially prevalent at night when one is reclining in bed. This is because gravity and a weakened sphincter muscle, that part of the anatomy that lies between the top of the stomach and bottom portion of the esophagus, allows the backward flow of the acid.

In addition heartburn or GERD can be caused by diet. That is because food such as grapefruit, tomatoes, coffee, chocolate and alcohol have acidic features or may be comprised of ingredients that cause excess acid. For example coffee and chocolate contain caffeine which has been shown to cause hyperacidity in some individuals.

Treatment Plan

There are many treatment plans for individuals who suffer heartburn or GERD. Two specific treatment options include the use of over-the-counter medications. These types of medications include products that are manufactured using calcium carbonate, magnesium and aluminum. Examples of these products include Tums, Rolaids, etc.

Another treatment program utilizes prescription medications. Those medications can shut down the production of acid in the stomach. One of those types of medication are called proton pump inhibitors. An example of this drug is the Protonix medication. Another type of medication may work to minimize the production of acid in the stomach. An example of this type of medication is Cimetidine.