About Acid Reflux
Acid reflux disease is a condition in which acid backs up from the stomach causing the esophagus to become inflamed or irritated. Normally, the stomach valve, known as the lower esophageal sphincter, prevents stomach acid from backing up. However, if this stomach valve opens too often or does not close all the way, digestive acids from your stomach move into the esophagus causing a number of unpleasant symptoms. Fortunately, an ear, nose and throat specialist in Sydney can devise a customized treatment plan to alleviate the symptoms you’ve been experiencing.
Symptoms of acid reflux disease include:
- Heartburn – a burning sensation that can occur in the stomach area, abdomen, chest, or throat
- Bitter-tasting acid backing up into your mouth and throat
- Vomiting (may include blood)
- Dysphagia – narrowing of the esophagus, which can feel like food is stuck in your throat
- Bloating
- Bloody or dark stools
- Nausea
- Chronic hiccups or burping
- Chronic sore throat, wheezing, or dry cough
- Unexplainable weight loss
Acid reflux can happen at any time but usually occurs more often when lying down. Heartburn is the most common symptoms reported by patients with this condition. An ENT specialist will ask you about your symptoms and will assess your risk factors. Knowing about the risk factors for acid reflux disease often helps patients to make effective lifestyle changes. For instance, being overweight is a common risk factor for the disorder. Eating large meals, lying down after meals, eating close to bedtime, smoking, consuming certain foods or drinking specific beverages, taking certain medications, and other daily habits may be causing your symptoms.
See a doctor if you are experiencing ongoing symptoms of acid reflux disease. A doctor who specializes in ENT in Sydney will offer the most effective treatment plan, and will be able to perform additional diagnostic tests if the problem is not alleviated using common treatment methods.
