Is there a difference between Indigestion and Acid Reflux?

Very often, the terms “indigestion” and “acid reflux” are used interchangeably. Do they really mean the same thing? In case you are wondering, this article is written specially for you. So read on.

In reality, there are a number of differences between the two conditions. Acid reflux symptoms are very similar to those of indigestion however they are more often than not a lot more severe and they persist for more than a few hours.

In its most serious form, acid reflux is known as Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD). GERD is characterised by pain in the oesophagus and throat where the acid from the stomach causes damage to the lining. These acid reflux symptoms can often only be relieved with medications and so it is important that anyone suffering from prolonged pain to consult the doctor with little delay.

If left untreated the acid reflux symptoms can become unbearable as the lining of the oesophagus is slowly eroded away by the stomach acid. The worst case scenario is that oesophageal cancer or any of the other serious and potentially life-threatening throat conditions develop which are a lot harder to treat than the initial acid reflux complaint.

Indigestion is often thought to be a milder version of acid reflux although this is not technically true. Some of the symptoms are similar however indigestion has a number of symptoms not experienced in acid reflux and vice versa. For example, one of the most common symptoms of indigestion is gassy episodes and often these episodes are felt by sufferers of true acid reflux. Indigestion sufferers may also have an uncomfortable feeling around the chest and shoulder area that isn’t relieved by burping.

If you over-eat or eat too quickly, there is a good chance of getting indigestion. Basically, you have just bombarded your stomach with food and acid is produced in large quantities. Acid reflux however is caused when the sphincter at the top of the stomach is weakened and the stomach acid is allowed to travel up the oesophagus and often into the throat. Because of different causes, you feel the major symptoms of the two conditions in different parts of the body i.e. the chest in indigestion and the throat/oesophagus in acid reflux.

Whether you are having indigestion or acid reflux, both can be managed with changing your eating and lifestyle habits. A few changes can go a long way in helping you reduce the pain and discomfort that you have. In cases of extreme pain, despite making these changes, you should see a doctor quickly.

Read on Indigestion Remedy here.