Is it Heartburn or is it GERD?
Portions of this information, copyright, Vaxa and Dr. Stan Headley; remainder, copyright, Neva J. Howell

GERD-Related Complication: Barrett's Esophagus

Have you dismissed chronic heartburn or acid reflux as a by-product of stress or a delicate system? Could it be more?

Many people with chronic heartburn are actually suffering from a more serious condition called GERD. If you have recurrent heartburn or regurgitation, you may need to see a gastroenterologist to rule out GERD.

Thanks to Vaxa Nutraceuticals and Dr. Stan Headly for some of this valuable information regarding GERD Symptoms and Causes.

Stan Headly and VAXA recommend this for GERD:
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What is GERD? Recurrent Heartburn Information

GERD is short for a condition officially called Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease. When a person has GERD, their lower esophageal sphincter doesn't close as it should which results in stomach acid leaking back into the esophagus.

What does the esophagus do?

Whatever food we eat gets from the mouth to the stomach by way of the esophagus. When the stomach acid refluxes into the esophagus repeatedly, the esophageal lining begins to be irritated. This causes the common GERD symptoms of heartburn, a burning sensation in the throat or chest area.

Although GERD symptoms include heartburn, you should suspect Gastroesophageal reflux disease if your heartburn occurs more than twice a week. About 5 to 7 percent of the population of the world is afflicted with GERD. It is important to treat Gastroesophageal reflux disease as soon as possible because untreated GERD can lead to more serious health concerns.

What causes GERD? The cause of gastroesophageal reflux disease is unknown but could be contributed to hiatal hernia, according to some healthcare professionals. A hiatal hernia develops when the upper part of the stomach slides above the diaphragm (muscle wall that separates the stomach from the chest).

A person can also develop GERD as a result of a relaxed lower esophageal sphincter caused by certain medications or pressure on the abdomen from excess body weight (obesity). In some cases gastroesophageal reflux disease could be attributed to an individuals eating pattern such as eating big meals and lying down or snacking at bedtime.

Can children have GERD?
Anyone can develop GERD including infants, pregnant women, children, and adults. Gastroesophageal reflux disease is often overlooked in infants and children. Elderly people with GERD usually have a more serious condition than younger people.

Part Two: Symptoms of GERD
Part Three: The link between diet and GERD
Part Four: How is Gerd Treated Medically?
Part Five: How is Gerd Treated Naturally?

If you suspect you may have this health condition, you may wish to consult with a specialist. Doctors who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of ailments affecting the gastrointestinal and digestive tract are called gastroenterologists. To locate a gastroenterologist in your area, check with your general practitioner for a referral or visit the The American Gastroenterological Association - GI Locator Service.

Health Care Disclaimer: The information contained in this health care article about gastroesophagael reflux disease, and attending factors such as a hiatal hernia and diet, is not intended to take the place of personal medical advice from your health care professional. Any action taken based on the contents found in this or any holistic wellbeing information on Ask A Healer is at the sole discretion of the reader. Please consult with your gastroenterologist on matters relating to your health and wellness.