It's not "just heartburn"--acid reflux disease may be more serious
than you think
Nearly everyone has experienced heartburn, the sensation of burning
discomfort in the chest, often brought on by eating a large meal. In
fact, heartburn is the most common gastroesophageal disorder in the
United States--more than seven in ten adult Americans suffer from
heartburn each month. Few people, however, realize that heartburn is
really just one symptom of the disorder known as acid reflux disease or
gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a condition in which stomach
acid repeatedly washes up into the esophagus, or remains in the
esophagus too long.
Most people experience GERD as a cluster of simple symptoms--belching,
chest pain, and indigestion. Others suffer painful or difficult
swallowing, asthma, chronic cough, and hoarseness, symptoms that can
indicate a more serious disorder or lead to such complications as
bleeding, esophageal stricture, and esophageal cancer. Some people,
however, experience no symptoms--and they run an especially high risk of
developing complications.
Healing Heartburn seeks to educate people about GERD's symptoms and
the range of available treatments and also to help people take charge of
their lives by doing something about their own acid reflux disease.
Authors Dr. Lawrence J. Cheskin and Dr. Brian E. Lacy cover diagnostic
tests, a step-by-step approach to treatment, the effectiveness of
medications, complications and how to avoid them, and special
considerations for pregnant women and for children. Illustrations,
questionnaires, patient vignettes, answers to commonly asked questions,
and a list of additional resources round out this comprehensive patient
guide.
