Reflux Condition & Symptoms

Reflux is also known as acid reflux, heartburn and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). It is a chronic digestive disease where acid backs up into the esophagus.
Anyone can be affected by reflux.

Symptoms

• Reflux symptoms include chest pain and a burning feeling in the chest. Reflux also causes a dry cough, trouble swallowing, hoarseness, a sore throat and regurgitating food or sour liquid.

Cause

• Reflux is caused by stomach acid or bile backing up into the esophagus, which causes it to become inflamed. This inflammation can erode the esophagus.

Risks

• Obesity, smoking, asthma and pregnancy are risk factors for reflux. Other risk factors include diabetes, hernias and delayed emptying of the stomach.

Complications

• Reflux causes chronic esophageal inflammation. Over time this can cause complications such as open sores inside the esophagus, narrowing of the esophagus and increased risk of esophageal cancer.

Treatment

• Over-the-counter treatment for reflux includes antacids and medicines to reduce and block acid production. Prescription medicines for reflux are similar to but stronger than over-the-counter treatments. Surgery may be considered when medicines do not help enough.