Acid Reflux Warning Signs That Are Not Heartburn

Caregivers in Springfield VA

Gastroesophogeal reflux disease, also known as GERD or acid reflux is a common condition among aging adults. Not only can it cause many painful and unpleasant symptoms, it can also be damaging to the lining of the esophagus and even the teeth.  Many family caregivers may believe that the main sign or symptom of GERD is heartburn, but that isn’t always the case for everyone. In fact, GERD has many other signs and symptoms that can actually be quite surprising.  If you suspect that your loved one may be suffering from GERD, be on the lookout for these other warning signs and discuss your observations with your loved one’s doctor.

• Sore Throat

A sore throat can often be caused by a cold or other illness, but when no other symptoms are present, then it can be the result of GERD. Since GERD causes stomach acid to travel upward in the esophagus, it can reach the throat and cause soreness.  If the acid also travels to your loved ones larynx, or voice box, it can cause hoarseness, too.

• Wheezing and Coughing

If other causes of wheezing and coughing such as asthma, bronchitis, or a cold have been ruled out, it is possible that the cause could be GERD. When stomach acid travels to the lungs, it can result in coughing or wheezing.

• Cavities and Other Dental Problems

If your loved one is diligent about brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash but is still developing cavities or other dental problems, GERD could be the cause. Stomach acid that travels all the way to the mouth can do damage to the enamel of teeth which puts them more at risk for cavities.

• Ringing Ears

Though it may seem impossible, acid from the stomach can actually travel all the way up the sinuses and even the ears in some cases of GERD. This can often cause pain and ringing in the ears.

• Difficulty Swallowing

Over time, acid reflux can irritate and damage the throat and esophagus. This irritation can sometimes even lead to the development of scar tissue on the esophagus. This scar tissue can leave your loved one with the constant feeling that something is stuck in their throat.  It can also lead to difficulty swallowing and the feeling that liquids aren’t “going down”.

If you or an aging loved one are considering hiring a professional caregiver in Springfield, VA, call the caring staff at Medical Professionals On Call today. 703-273-8818

Source: http://www.rd.com/health/conditions/acid-reflux-symptoms/

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Michelle DeFilippis

I graduated with a BS degree and had been selling medical equipment to hospitals, clinics and technicians. More recently, a family member was diagnosed with dementia and we, as a family, realized we were not prepared t care for her. We were thrown into that whirlpool of hospital stays, 24/7 live-in care, skilled care, caring for mom ourselves and finally, now daily home care. This was such a stressful time that I started thinking there had to be other people, other families as overwhelmed and unprepared as we were.

Medical Professionals On Call has such a caring, professional staff who are available to step in with whatever level of care necessary for loved ones and to relieve you of that stress.

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