What is Acid Reflux?

Acid reflux, or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), occurs when the valve at the bottom of the esophagus, called the lower esophageal sphincter, is weak or relaxes inappropriately, allowing stomach acid to easily flow upward into the esophagus, which is your swallowing tube.

What are the symptoms of acid reflux?

The most common symptom of acid reflux is heartburn. Most people have experienced heartburn at least once. It's an uncomfortable burning sensation in the upper abdomen or lower chest area. It often occurs when you're lying down or bending forwarded. It often occurs after eating. Other symptoms of acid reflux are a bitter taste at the back of the mouth, regurgitation of food, difficult or painful swallowing and, in some cases, chest pain.

How can I avoid acid reflux, or GERD?

Few patients develop complications from the disease. However, long-lasting and untreated GERD can lead to damage of the esophagus lining. The irritated lining also can result in a condition called Barrett's esophagus, which is a risk factor for cancer of the esophagus.

How do I do an acid reflux diet?

Reducing the incidence of acid reflux focuses more on life style changes, not just on diet alone. Lifestyle modifications are helpful in relieving symptoms. When it comes to diet, if you have the condition you should avoid the following foods because they tend to exacerbate acid reflux. An acid reflux diet focuses on eliminating the following:

• Spicy foods
• Fatty foods
• Acidic foods

What else reduces the risk for acid reflux?

Part of an acid reflux diet and healthy lifestyle includes quitting smoking. Quitting smoking definitely helps to reduce symptoms and is key to improving the condition. Reducing alcohol intake also is essential. For some people, losing weight can lessen symptoms as well, and their physician may recommend weight loss.

What else is essential to a acid reflux diet and lifestyle?

For immediate relief, your physician may recommend taking antacids. Your doctor can recommend the type of antacid to take and how often you should take it. In addition, over-the-counter acid blockers are available. For those with frequent reflux, meaning symptoms occur several times a week, more potent acid blockers prescribed by your physician are available. A surgical option, called laparoscopic fundoplication, is available for those who have severe reflux and for whom medications do not work.

How do I know if I have acid reflux?

Your doctor can determine if you have acid reflux by your symptoms and with testing.

How do I know if an acid reflux diet is right for me?

Avoiding certain foods as part of an acid reflux diet should come at the recommendation of your physician. Only your physician can determine if an acid reflux diet is right, or necessary, for you.

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