How Much Acid Reflux Is Normal?
Nearly everyone will experience heartburn at some point in their life— it’s just a fact. However, there’s a very fine line between “normal” reflux after a huge meal and daily, debilitative heartburn that affects your productivity. Let’s take a look at a common question we hear a lot at the Tampa Bay Reflux Center: when is reflux normal?
When Is Reflux Normal?
We’ll be completely honest with you: occasional acid reflux is perfectly normal. Sometimes we overeat, or overdo it on the acidity within our foods, and our stomach complains about it. Here are a few situations for which we would consider reflux symptoms to be “normal:”
During pregnancy
After a large meal
After acidic meals or beverages (like coffee or wine)
If you have been fasting
After carbonated beverages
If you exercise on a full stomach
If you lie on your stomach right after eating
But, how will you know if you are experiencing “abnormal” or excessive reflux?
How Much Acid Reflux Is Too Much?
According to many specialists, any individual who experiences heartburn at least every other day (or 3 times a week) may be experiencing gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). You may be more likely to develop GERD if you have ever been pregnant, are overweight, or have ever smoked. If you experience night waking due to heartburn and struggle to stay comfortable even when upright during the day, it’s very likely that your reflux is abnormal.
So What Is GERD?
It is generally thought that the fundamental cause of GERD is a weakened lower esophageal sphincter (LES). There are many different substances that can exacerbate this issue, but sometimes the LES is just not tight enough to hold back the stomach contents. In this case, no amount of acid-reducing medication will ever help you solve the root problem.
In fact, we don’t recommend prolonged use of over-the-counter reflux medication because it will often mask your symptoms without eliminating the enzymes that reflux up into your esophagus— the enzyme pepsin can still do considerable damage.
Is Acid Reflux Dangerous?
Occasional acid reflux is a normal occurrence, but consistent, recurring heartburn is a sign that something else might be going on. It is important that you see a specialist about GERD because repeated exposure of the esophageal lining to the stomach’s acidity and enzymes can cause destruction of the tissue, and even lead to cancer.
Acid Reflux Specialist in Tampa Bay
When it comes right down to it, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Here at the Tampa Bay Reflux Center, we work with GERD patients every day, and we can help you determine whether or not you might be suffering from this disease. We will help you get a diagnosis and discuss your treatment options with you. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with a reflux specialist!