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Types of Acid Reflux

Acid reflux is a condition in which stomach acids or bile basically flows back into the esophagus. The differentiation between the types of acid reflux really involves the severity of a person's condition, as each of these digestive disorders is ultimately a result of the esophageal sphincter and the way in which it functions.

  1. Acid Reflux

    • Acid reflux, often referred to as gastroesophageal reflux, is essentially a digestive condition where the acids in the stomach essentially flow backwards and pervade into the esophagus. This is most often due to the esophageal sphincter not closing properly after the food has passed. When this happens, a person will generally begin to taste a fairly sour flavor isolated toward the back of his mouth. Sometimes, it may also be an almost "vomit-like" taste as some food may have come back up with the stomach acid.

    Acid Indigestion

    • While not truly a type of acid reflux, acid indigestion, or heartburn, is usually put together with this particular grouping of digestive disorders as it is closely related to acid reflux and gastroesophageal reflux disease. When you experience acid indigestion, which is usually categorized by a burning sensation somewhere along the bone of the breast, it will usually be due to the "reflux of acid" from the stomach. This sensation may last anywhere from a few minute to upwards of an hour, and may even move from the chest into the throat.

    Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease

    • Gastroesophageal reflux disease, otherwise known as GERD, shouldn't be confused with acid reflux as this digestive condition is a chronic or constant "reflux" of that which is in your stomach. Acid reflux would be a more periodic condition. With GERD, you will experience almost the same symptoms as both acid reflux and acid indigestion, but it could be accompanied by coughing or wheezing and even a difficulty in swallowing. GERD can lead to more serious problems like ulcers in the esophagus or an actual narrowing of the esophageal tube.

    Nighttime Acid Indigestion

    • This is more so a situational type of acid indigestion, as it will usually occur while a person is asleep, mostly due to the positioning of the body. As a person lies down, the acid in his stomach may flow back into the esophagus, owing to the improper closure of the esophageal sphincter (which is common in all these disorders). A person suffering from this specific digestive condition may not ever realize having it, since most reflux disorders are related to food. However, a good indication of nighttime acid indigestion would be a bitter taste in the mouth upon waking, a burning sensation along the breastbone or throat, persistent cough and even asthma.

    Prevention/Solution

    • There are a few things people can do to lessen the effects of acid reflux on their lives. Most have to do with lifestyle and can easily be adhered to once you know what to do. People will often have certain foods that act as triggers for their reflux, which should be avoided. Many people also find some relief by eating less at mealtime, eating at a slower pace, losing weight, avoiding alcohol and relieving stress. For more chronic forms of this condition, these factors may help with the symptoms but a person will generally need some assistance, either in over-the-counter or prescription medication.

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