Reflux Symptoms: Warning Signs & What You Can Do About Them
For many people, that burning feeling in your chest (heartburn), after eating too much or
eating too fast, is a familiar occurrence. While it’s normal to experience heartburn from
time to time, regularly reoccurring acid reflux is usually diagnosed as gastroesophageal
reflux disease (GERD) – a potentially serious chronic disease that occurs when stomach
acid flows into the oesophagus and irritates the lining. If left untreated, GERD can
increase the risk of cancer of the oesophagus or pharynx. Unfortunately, a lot of people
go undiagnosed for years because they don’t take their acid reflux symptoms seriously. In
fact, did you know that many people are actually first diagnosed with gastroesophageal
reflux disease by their dentist?
How can your dentist help diagnose reflux?
Dentists are often the first health care professionals to diagnose GERD as it can also
greatly affect your teeth. Aside from heartburn, one of the first indications of the disease
is erosion of tooth enamel. Too much acid can start to dissolve the enamel – particularly
at night while you sleep. If the enamel has started to wear away, it can make your teeth
sensitive to hot and cold, and cause a yellowish discolouration. As this loss of enamel is
permanent, it’s imperative that you book an appointment with your dentist right away if
you are experiencing any sensitivity. Even if you’re already aware that you suffer from
acid reflux, see your dentist regularly so they can recommend ways to prevent further
damage. This is not something you want to ignore as enamel erosion can result in needing
fillings, crowns or even extractions in extreme situations.
Know the signs associated with acid reflux
In addition to tooth sensitivity and heartburn, other tell-tale signs of reflux are excessive
burping, having the sensation of a lump in your throat, and experiencing a sour, acidic
taste in your mouth. These are all common reflux symptoms and should be given prompt
attention. The good news is that the following list indicates some relatively easy ways to
lower your risk of symptoms worsening:
1) Eat smaller meals
2) Resist napping after a big meal – stay upright
3) Eliminate smoking and alcohol
4) Reduce or eliminate trigger foods such as tomatoes, citric fruits and foods that are
spicy, acidic or high in fat
5) Maintain a healthy weight