We have all had acid reflux from time to time, although if it is not a chronic problem, we probably do not recognize it for what it is, but instead just write it off to being heartburn or indigestion. But if the condition persists or accompanies every meal or even every little thing that we eat, this can be a sign of acid reflux.

Acid reflux disease is also known as gastro esophageal reflux disease or GERD. It can be caused by a wide variety of different things, where the causes can vary from person to person, depending on the severity of the affliction. Contrary to popular belief, diet is not the single cause of GERD although it plays a significant part.

For most adults, acid reflux symptoms are typically evidenced and being seen as heartburn, chest pains, difficulty in swallowing. It can also frequently be accompanied by an uncomfortable feeling like swelling in the lower to middle part of the stomach or even as simple as a lump in your throat. If the incidence of acid reflux disease is severe enough, it is difficult to tell the difference between a case of acid reflux and a case of something much more serious, such as heart disease. Yes, you may feel like a fool for calling 911 and finding out that you simply have acid reflux, but that is better than not calling and finding out that you have a heart disease or condition that requires immediate medical attention. One of the problems is that it is entirely possible and logical for you to have acid reflux and heart disease issues at the same time.

One of the most prominent signs of acid reflux is heartburn. A mild heartburn is not at all uncommon, but when it happens after every meal, regardless of what you eat, it may be a sign of something more serious, such as acid reflux. One of the most effective ways of reversing acid reflux is with a change to both your diet and the amount of physical activity you get each day. With most household having both spouses working just to make ends meet, physical activity may be very low on the priority list, but believe me, it can make a big difference.

Other ways to avoid acid reflux are to lose weight. We all know that this task has been on your new year's resolution list for a number of years, but losing weight can also make a big difference in the effects of acid reflux. Some other approaches that have been seen to be effective in many people is to avoid alcohol, eat smaller meals instead of the large multi-course meals, and not laying down after eating for at least three hours.

Acid reflux may be something that you just need to live with, but there is no sense in living with something uncomfortable if there are things you can do to make living with it easier for you. The biggest thing you can do is to watch your diet. Avoid the intake of foods that seem to aggravate the symptoms of acid reflux, such as foods that contain a lot of acids and are likely to make the stomach react unfavorably.