Things You Should Know About Acid Reflux
Overlooking the Influence of Acid Reflux on Oral Health
Acid reflux is known to have various impacts on our health, but one often overlooked aspect is its effect on oral health. The condition can lead to dental problems because stomach acid, which is part of the reflux, can be corrosive to tooth enamel.
Repeated acid exposure can cause the enamel to wear away, resulting in tooth sensitivity, discoloration, and an increased risk of cavities. Symptoms of such dental erosion include sharp tooth edges, shiny surfaces on the teeth, and tooth sensitivity to sweet, hot, or cold foods and drinks.
Individuals with acid reflux may also experience a sour or bitter taste in the mouth, especially upon waking up in the morning. It’s a telling symptom that many people may not associate with acid reflux, but it’s a direct result of stomach acid reaching the mouth.
Ensuring good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups is crucial for those with acid reflux. Informing your dentist about your condition is also beneficial as they can provide personalized care and guidance, helping you maintain your oral health despite the challenges acid reflux presents.
Question 1 / 10
Do you frequently feel a burning sensation in your chest, especially after meals or at night?
Common Symptoms of Acid Reflux
Chronic Cough: A Common Yet Overlooked Symptom of Acid Reflux
Acid reflux isn’t always synonymous with heartburn. One common, yet often overlooked, symptom is a chronic cough. This persistent cough can occur even when other symptoms of acid reflux are not present, making it easy to overlook.
The cough is usually dry and occurs due to the constant backflow of stomach acid into the esophagus and sometimes into the throat. This regurgitation irritates the lining of your esophagus, causing an automatic coughing response.
The cough can get worse at night when you’re lying down, and may also be triggered by eating certain foods or consuming alcohol. These are important signs that your cough may be related to acid reflux.
Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent long-term damage and enhance your overall quality of life. If you have a chronic cough and are unsure of the cause, consider discussing the possibility of acid reflux with your healthcare provider.
Interesting Facts About Acid Reflux
Acid Reflux Can Occur Without Heartburn: The Story of Silent Reflux
A surprising fact about acid reflux is that it can occur without the most commonly associated symptom – heartburn. This is a significant fact as many people may remain undiagnosed or misdiagnosed because their symptoms don’t fit the typical profile of acid reflux.
Many people, particularly those with a condition called laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR), experience acid reflux symptoms without heartburn. LPR, often referred to as silent reflux, is a condition in which stomach acid flows back into the throat or voice box.
Symptoms of silent reflux include a chronic cough, hoarseness, and the sensation of a lump in the throat, which are not typically associated with acid reflux. These symptoms are the body’s response to irritation of the throat, voice box, and airways by the refluxed stomach acid.
Understanding that heartburn is not a mandatory symptom of acid reflux can lead to better recognition of the condition and timely treatment. If you experience any of the symptoms associated with silent reflux, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider for proper evaluation and treatment.