Just about everyone experiences heartburn symptoms once in a while, especially after certain meals. But if these are recurring, and you find yourself turning to over-the-counter medication for acid reflux relief on a regular basis then it's time to visit our Garland, TX, otolaryngologist, Dr. James Maddox.
Large Meals
Although there isn't a single cause for GERD, the condition can be brought on by eating large meals on a regular basis or lying down too soon after eating them. Both can affect how the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) functions.
The LES, when it's working properly, relaxes when you swallow food and tightens up again. But acid reflux occurs when digestive juices rise up into the esophagus due to the LES not functioning as it should.
There are other risk factors that can increase your chances of developing GERD, such as obesity, being pregnant, smoking, and anxiety, among others, including your overall diet.
GERD Symptoms
Acid reflux occurs when the contents from your stomach move back up into your esophagus, which is what causes the familiar discomfort. Gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, is a condition that causes acid reflux as its main symptom, so if you experience it more than twice a week you should seek help from your doctor. If left untreated, GERD can lead to serious complications in some.
Heartburn, or acid reflux, can feel like an uncomfortable burning in your chest that can move into the neck and throat and is often accompanied by a sour bitter taste at the back of your mouth.
But other symptoms can accompany it, such as nausea, pain, and difficulty swallowing, chronic cough, chest pain, bad breath, and a hoarse voice.
Acid Reflux Treatment in Garland, TX
While not all who suffer from acid reflux will experience severe symptoms, simply finding relief can greatly improve your quality of life.
If you are looking to explore your treatment options for GERD and acid reflux you can schedule a consultation in Garland, TX, with Dr. Maddox by dialing (972) 272-5555.