Heartburn and Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease
Heartburn is a symptom of conditions like acid reflux and gastroesophageal reflux disease that can cause permanent damage to your esophagus. Gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, is a digestive problem that affects the ability of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) to keep stomach acid in the stomach.
The LES is a muscular valve that is located where the esophagus empties into the stomach. Normally, it stays closed with the help of gravity, only opening to let food into the stomach or to let out excessive air during belching. However, things can affect the valve to make it open too often or keep it from being tightly closed, which can allow stomach acid to flow into the esophagus.
Chronic acid reflux can lead to GERD, but heartburn is not always a sign of the disease. Other symptoms of this disorder include:
- Vomiting/regurgitation
- Nausea
- Sore throat
- Laryngitis
- Hoarseness
- Halitosis
- Unexplainable dry cough
- Asthma
- Earaches
- Chest pain
If left untreated, chronic heartburn and GERD can lead to several serious health issues, such as esophageal bleeding, esophagitis, and ulcers. It can also increase your risk of developing esophageal cancer. Thus, many people turn to medication to help them treat their problem.
One such medication, Reglan, is used to treat those who suffer from GERD who have not found relief from other medicines. While treating GERD is important, Reglan can cause serious side effects, including tardive dyskinesia, which can negatively affect a person for the rest of his or her life.
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Tardive dyskinesia is a serious disorder that causes uncontrollable muscle contractions and movements. If you or someone you know has developed this disorder or other problems related to Reglan, you should consult a Reglan attorney about your rights.
For more information regarding this condition from a Reglan lawyer, contact the law firm of Williams Kherkher today at 800-761-3187.
