What are the symptoms of GERD?

Gastroesophageal reflux disease is one of the most common problems among Americans, in fact some of us may have it and not even realize it. Here are a few of the symptoms:

*Heartburn (the most familiar symptom)
*Eroded dental enamel
*Voice problems such as hoarseness or laryngitis
*Difficulty in swallowing
*A repeated feeling of the need to clear the throat
*Chronic coughing
*Shortness of breath
*Postnasal drip
*Esophageal bleeding
*Ulceration or stricture (narrowing) of esophagus
*Pneumonitis (inflammation of the lungs)
*Chest pain
*Asthma
*Barret's esophagus (a precancerous condition)
*Esophageal cancer

If you find yourself with these symptoms, consult your doctor.

*Tip of the Week* Chew Gum

Chewing gum or even chewing on a toothpick thirty minutes after a meal has been found to help relieve heartburn in some patients, because chewing produces extra saliva, which neutralizes acid. However, chewing gum that contains oil of peppermint can relax the muscle between the stomach and the esophagus, leading to acid reflux. Chewing gum doesn't help all GI upsets, however. People who experience gas or bloating should avoid chewing gum because it can result in swallowed air, which adds to the amount of gas in the digestive tract.

"Freedom from Digestive Distress" by Gary Gitnick, MD, 2000

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