The term acid reflux is actually a popular term for the term, GastroEsophageal Reflux Disease, which is also commonly referred to as GERD. This disease, acid reflux, is a condition where the stomach regurgitates a liquid substance into the esophagus causing damage or discomfort in the individual. While acid reflux isn't potentially fatal or even life threatening, it can cause a decent amount of discomfort for the inflicted individual. That individual should then take the time to understand, just what is acid reflux?
The liquid that is regurgitated, or refluxed, to begin acid reflux is actually a combination of acid and pepsin, which is the enzyme that digests proteins in the stomach. Some people that suffer from acid reflux also have bile from the duodenum that has backed up into the stomach. Pepsin and bile don't have as much to do with the damaging or discomforting areas of acid reflux, hence the name of the condition is "acid" reflux.
Many complain that acid reflux only attacks them at night and it can be a very difficult situation to overcome, in addition to being extremely frustrating. However, acid reflux does occur in most individuals, even those who don't have an extreme case of the condition, during the day when the individual is in an upright position. Since the individual is standing up right then the acid tends to flow back into the stomach nearly undetected by the individual person.
Women who are pregnant may suffer from irregular levels of acid reflux do to the imbalance of hormones in the body. Along with the uncomfortable position of the abdomen due to the fetus, the results of acid reflux are much more painful during this time. While it is a difficult and uncomfortable condition to suffer from the pains of acid reflux can be overcome, most of the time by over the counter products.
Medications like Pepsid, Protonix, and Prilosec can be found at just about any drug store and have a considerable amount of success in overcoming acid reflux. Gastroesophageal reflux disease, or acid reflux, is a chronic condition, meaning that it will inflict an individual for their entire life instead of just a limited amount of time. If over the counter solutions don't work, contact your doctor or physician.
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