What is spontaneous gastroesophageal reflux?

Gastroesophageal reflux is the involuntary movement of gastric contents to the esophagus (Figure 2). Gastroesophageal reflux is a normal physiological process that occurs several times a day without symptoms or damage of the esophageal mucosa in most otherwise healthy individuals.

What are symptoms of persistent GERD?

You should see your doctor immediately if you have symptoms such as unexplained weight loss, trouble swallowing or internal bleeding in addition to heartburn and/or acid regurgitation. Symptoms that persist after you have made simple lifestyle changes also warrant a visit to your doctor.

Can GERD symptoms be temporary?

Symptoms include pain that gets worse after a meal and acid regurgitation. Because the symptoms tend to be temporary, a woman usually doesn’t experience the long-term complications associated with GERD, like ongoing inflammation.

Can too much zinc cause acid reflux?

Can multivitamins cause heartburn? Multivitamins, especially the ones containing zinc, iron, or calcium, can aggravate the symptoms of GERD including heartburn.

When is acid reflux a sign of Gerd?

Most people experience mild reflux from time to time. The risk of complications is generally low when the reflux is minor. In contrast, frequent acid reflux can be a sign of a condition known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

How long does zinc last for acid reflux?

A study published in “The American Journal of Gastroenterology” in 2011 found that taking zinc quickly relieved acid reflux symptoms in both rats and people. The effects lasted for more than three hours.

Why does acid reflux cause sore throat and hoarseness?

Acid reflux can cause sore throats and hoarseness and may literally leave a bad taste in your mouth. When acid reflux produces chronic symptoms, it is known as gastroesophageal reflux disorder, or GERD. The most common symptom of GERD is heartburn —pain in the upper abdomen and chest that sometimes feel like you’re having a heart attack.

What to do if you have reflux symptoms?

Other ways to help GERD symptoms. If lifestyle changes alone don’t improve reflux-related breathing problems, your doctor may also recommend drug treatments for GERD symptoms. Drugs that your doctor may recommend include antacids, H2 receptor blockers, and proton pump inhibitors.