Aging and Disease

Everyone from infants to elderly people can suffer from acid reflux. It happens when stomach acid is refluxed or regurgitated back into the esophagus. There are many possible causes. An above normal level of acid in the stomach can be as a result of an ulcer. Eating too fast can cause undigested foods to clog up and cause acid to be refluxed. Acid reflux can also occur if a person does any exercise too soon after eating. In fact, there are five major symptoms that you should look for if you think you suffer from acid reflux. If these symptoms worsen or your ability to function is compromised for long time periods then you should see a doctor.

Symptom number one is a sensation of burning in the area in front of the lungs and heart. The onset can happen within minutes after eating or even during eating. This is the most uncomfortable and severe of the symptoms. Unfortunately, people mistake this for a heart attack. The best solution is to take an antacid and try to lie down for three minutes. Usually, when you feel more comfortable the symptom will simply disappear. Another remedy is to drink water, which will lubricate the digestive tract, and help jammed food go down.

Symptom number two is persistent daily burping and coughing. This can indicate that there is excessive gas in the stomach. The movement of stomach gas can also force acid back out. The coughing is a result of stomach acid getting near the lungs. However, if the cough continues for two weeks or more without any other cold like symptoms then you should see a doctor.

A long period of voice loss is the number three symptom. If you are coughing continuously, you do risk losing your voice because the throat becomes dry. Acid reflux can give a person the impression they are getting a cold, but this is deceptive. A doctor can only make a diagnosis based on keeping a watch on the cough, any throat dryness, and any other symptoms for a week’s time. If the symptoms and the cough have disappeared at the end of this then it probably was a cold. If it is acid reflux, the symptoms will reoccur or may continue for an indefinite period.

Symptom number four is a sour taste inside the mouth. This can go on for a few months and needs to be assessed by a doctor.

Symptom number five is a hoarse voice, usually as a result of the persistent cough. Though this may also be another symptom of the common cold, a combination of them needs a visit to the doctor. There are a few tests the doctor can do to properly diagnose acid reflux. Then and only then will the doctor prescribe medication to control your acid reflux.

Tags: Disease, Health

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