The Basics of Acid Reflux Syndrome
Acid reflux is a condition in which partially chewed or digested food that contains acidic digestive juices travel back into the esophagus or throat.
The biological aspect of this disease is where the digestive system fails due to the lower esophageal sphincter not operating in the correct manner. Normally, food enters the digestive tract via the mouth, through the esophagus and into the stomach. With acid reflux the esophageal sphincter cannot hold the stomach contents and regurgitation results.
Once food has reached the stomach it joins with digestive juices that are very acidic to break down the food to head into the intestinal tract. When the esophageal sphincter is not working properly the stomach contents including the acidic juices begins to travel back up the throat or esophagus. This causes inflammation in the esophagus or throat and can become extremely painful, inflamed, and actual causes esophagus scarring.
Not only is a sore throat common, but you also may see pus on the tonsils, frequent salivation including drooling or spitting, difficulty in breathing due to inflammation and the narrowing of air passages and pain in the chest area, abdomen and upper throat.
The beginnings of acid reflux syndrome are very similar to heartburn symptoms. The burning sensation in the lower throat, esophagus, and the top end of the stomach is an indication that stomach acids are backing up into the esophagus. Simple home remedies can help with a sore throat and burning symptoms. You may find that gargling with salt water can help, popsicles, cold drinks, and sucking on solid candies to increase your saliva. Increasing saliva is one of the most important aspects of treating acid reflux, saliva contains bicarbonate, which helped neutralize the stomach acids.
When acid reflux syndrome is not minimized with home treatments, it's time to take a visit to your doctor. There are different medications and treatments for acid reflux, and it's especially important if you find that you have become dehydrated, have difficulty breathing, or severe pain. You may be prescribed antibiotics, coticosteroids, or even a neutralizing acid prescription.
You also may have to change your diet and eating habits if you are diagnosed with acid reflux. You may be asked to eat small meals instead of a larger mail, eat earlier in the evening so you're digestive tract can handle a meal before lying prone, and consume copious amounts of water.
While there is no cure for acid reflux there are many treatments available, and new research is finding answers on a regular basis. There are medications, treatments, and changes in lifestyle as well as some surgical procedures that can help if you are found to have acid reflux syndrome.
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