Gerd or acid reflux? We’ve all felt that burning, uncomfortable sensation in the chest area after an extra spicy dish, late night snack, or big meal. If you only experience acid reflux or heartburn on the rare occasion, it may be nothing to worry about.
But if you experience the symptoms more often or they start to interfere with your day to day life, it could indicate something more serious.
Such as GERD, gastroesophageal reflux disease, which can cause inflammation, damage the esophagus, and narrowing of the esophagus. If it persist, it can even lead to precancerous changes, also known as Barrett’s esophagus
Acid Reflux
When stomach acid moves back up into the esophagus, the tube that moves food to your stomach from your mouth, this is acid reflux. The stomach acid that flows backward can cause a number of issues. Sour taste in the mouth, regurgitation, heartburn, and an uncomfortable feeling.
Experiencing this after a large, rich meal is not so uncommon. In most cases, simple changes in lifestyle can ease the discomfort, elevate the head when sleeping, refrain from trigger foods, and avoid heavy meals before going to bed.
GERD
GERD is gastroesophageal reflux disease, and heartburn is a symptom. This disease is a digestive disorder that affects the lower esophageal sphincter.
Normally when a person is done chewing and swallows the food, a band of muscle around the bottom of your esophagus relaxes to allow food and liquid into your stomach.
That band is called the esophageal sphincter. Once the esophageal sphincter allows the food and liquid to pass through, the muscle tightens again. The issues arise when the esophageal sphincter weakens or relaxes abnormally.
Difference Between GERD and Acid Reflux
Frequency it is normal for acid reflux occasionally. If it happens more frequently or on a regular basis, it may be GERD
Severity the symptoms of GERD are more disruptive and intense
Response to changes in lifestyle Heartburn that does not improve with an adjustment in diet or habits, may be GERD. Medical treatments is often needed.
Potential complications if left untreated, GERD carries risks that are long term. Occasional acid reflux does not.
Occasional heartburn is not alarming and may not be a cause of concern. It may be uncomfortable, so plan a visit to speak with our doctors at Gastroenterology Consultants of Central Florida.