Acid reflux occurs when stomach acid flows back up into the esophagus, leading to symptoms like heartburn, a burning sensation in the chest, and regurgitation of food or sour liquid. This condition is often chronic and can lead to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) if it happens frequently or is associated with other symptoms.
Common Symptoms:
- Heartburn (burning sensation in the chest)
- Regurgitation of food or sour liquid
- Chest pain
- Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
- Feeling of a lump in the throat (globus sensation)
- Chronic cough
- Hoarseness or sore throat
- Nausea
- Bad breath
- Belching and bloating
- Wheezing or other asthma-like symptoms
- Disrupted sleep, especially if symptoms occur at night
These symptoms can range from mild to severe and may worsen when lying down or after eating large meals. Chronic acid reflux occurring more than twice a week may indicate GERD, which can lead to more serious complications if left untreated.
Commonly Prescribed Medications:
- Omeprazole 20mg, 40mg (Prilozec)
- Pantoprazole 20mg, 40mg (Protonix)
- Esomeprazole 20mg, 40mg (Nexium)
- Lansoprazole 30mg (Prevacid)
- Rabeprazole 20mg (Aciphex)
- Dexlansoprazole 30mg, 60mg (Dexilant)
- Famotidine 20mg, 40mg
- Cimetidine 400mg, 800mg
Further Reading:
2. American College of Gastroenterology's guide on acid reflux