Facebook Pixel

Comment Reply

According to the American College of Gastroesophology the causes of GERD and hearburn/indigestion are the same: "acid is produced in the stomach every day. Normally, a small amount of acid passes into the esophagus through a valve between the esophagus and stomach called the lower esophageal sphincter. When the frequency or amount of acid in contact with your esophagus increases, symptoms and damage to your esophagus can occur."

Here is some information that may help you determine what you are experiencing, from the Mayo Clinic's Digestive System website:

ACID REFLUX
Acid reflux is more of a symptom/cause rather than a condition/disease. It is one cause of GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) and heartburn/indigestion.

HEARTBURN
Heartburn is a burning sensation in esophagus, just below or behind the breastbone. Frequent heartburn can be a serious problem, and it deserves medical attention.

GERD
A disease in which stomach acid or bile flows back ("refluxes") into your esophagus.
Symptoms include:
* Heartburn — burning sensation in your chest, sometimes spreading to the throat, along with a sour taste in your mouth.
* Chest pain, especially at night while lying down
* Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
* Coughing, wheezing, asthma, hoarseness or sore throat
* Regurgitation of food or sour liquid

What symptoms are you experiencing, and how often?

If you are experiencing heartburn or any type of reflux that: occurs several times per week, wakes you up at night or returns after antacid has worn off, you are encouraged to talk with your doctor.

November 18, 2008 - 1:29pm

Reply

Image CAPTCHA
Enter the characters shown in the image.
By submitting this form, you agree to EmpowHER's terms of service and privacy policy