Alisonb posting hit the main differences. Just in case you want more info, here is what I have learned from my own experience with acid reflux that almost become chronic. The main difference of at least the two conditions: GERD and Acid Reflux is the frequency each is experienced. Understanding this difference is very important as one is more serious than the other. In regards to heartburn, it a symptom and it is present on both instances. Heartburn is sometimes referred to as acid indigestion manifested by a burning sensation and pain in the lower part of the mid-chest, behind the breast bone, and in the mid-abdomen.
Now, let’s go back to Gastroesophageal reflux (GER) and Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD). The first one is the most common and it is known as acid reflux or acid regurgitation. When acid reflux occurs, food or fluid can be tasted in the back of the mouth. In a normal functioning digestion, food travels or slides down to the stomach via the esophagus (the long tube that leads to the stomach). At the stomach entrance the muscles relax and allow food to pass into the stomach and acids start to break food down into easy to digest parts. Once eating is finished the muscular rings at the end of the esophagus should relax to keep food and acids from backing up out of the stomach and refluxing into the esophageal tube. If this does not happen then we have an example of acid reflux. Sometimes, acid reflux is caused by hernias in the stomach which cause it to slide out of place, the protecting rings that keep food and acid in the stomach may not work properly as a result. Acid reflux then is food and acid splashed UP into the esophagus causing heartburn, chest pain and belching. Acid reflux can lead to angina-like chest pains and spasms, the symptoms can be so intense that they are mistaken for a heart attack. Occasional GER (acid reflux) is not uncommon. However, acid reflux that becomes persistent and occurs more than twice a week is considered GERD, and it can eventually lead to more serious health problems. People of all ages can have GERD and this is a more serious condition. Consult a medical professional if you suspect GERD or acid reflux that occurs too frequently. You should consider making dietary changes as well.
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Alisonb posting hit the main differences. Just in case you want more info, here is what I have learned from my own experience with acid reflux that almost become chronic. The main difference of at least the two conditions: GERD and Acid Reflux is the frequency each is experienced. Understanding this difference is very important as one is more serious than the other. In regards to heartburn, it a symptom and it is present on both instances. Heartburn is sometimes referred to as acid indigestion manifested by a burning sensation and pain in the lower part of the mid-chest, behind the breast bone, and in the mid-abdomen.
Now, let’s go back to Gastroesophageal reflux (GER) and Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD). The first one is the most common and it is known as acid reflux or acid regurgitation. When acid reflux occurs, food or fluid can be tasted in the back of the mouth. In a normal functioning digestion, food travels or slides down to the stomach via the esophagus (the long tube that leads to the stomach). At the stomach entrance the muscles relax and allow food to pass into the stomach and acids start to break food down into easy to digest parts. Once eating is finished the muscular rings at the end of the esophagus should relax to keep food and acids from backing up out of the stomach and refluxing into the esophageal tube. If this does not happen then we have an example of acid reflux. Sometimes, acid reflux is caused by hernias in the stomach which cause it to slide out of place, the protecting rings that keep food and acid in the stomach may not work properly as a result. Acid reflux then is food and acid splashed UP into the esophagus causing heartburn, chest pain and belching. Acid reflux can lead to angina-like chest pains and spasms, the symptoms can be so intense that they are mistaken for a heart attack. Occasional GER (acid reflux) is not uncommon. However, acid reflux that becomes persistent and occurs more than twice a week is considered GERD, and it can eventually lead to more serious health problems. People of all ages can have GERD and this is a more serious condition. Consult a medical professional if you suspect GERD or acid reflux that occurs too frequently. You should consider making dietary changes as well.
November 18, 2008 - 10:27pmThis Comment
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