Biter taste, burning sensation in the chest, is often observed in people suffering from acid reflux. Acid reflux is a stomach related ailment.
To understand what is acid reflux , one has to understand the working of the esophagus and the stomach.
Food enters the stomach through the esophagus or the food pipe. However, there exists a lower esophageal sphincter (LES), which actually acts as a link between the stomach and the esophagus. LES acts like a one-way valve. It allows only the passage of the food into the stomach. The lower esophageal sphincter prevents the food and the stomach acid from gaining entry into the esophagus.
In a person suffering from acid reflux, the lower esophageal sphincter stops functioning properly. Hence the acidic stomach content backflow into the esophagus causing irritation to it. Acid reflux is also known as Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease or GERD.
GERD has many adverse effects on the body, especially the esophagus. GERD sufferers stand an increase chance of developing Barrett's esophagus. It is a condition wherein the normal cells known as the ‘squamous cells’ lining the esophagus are replaced by specialized columnar cells. This change takes place due to the constant attack by the acidic stomach contents on the esophagus. If left unattended, Barrett's esophagus aids in the formation of esophageal cancer. Known as the Adenocarcinoma type of esophageal cancer, this cancer develops in the lining of the esophagus and normally takes place in the lower third of the esophagus.
Acid reflux can also cause sinusitis and erosion of the teeth and gums. This is seconded by a research done by Medical College of Wisconsin. Studies have shown that the acidic content can reach as high as the larynx. Though it may not reach the sinus, it might cause an inflammation of the of nasal mucous, which will then create a blockage in the sinus. Acid reflux also causes erosion of the teeth and the gums. The strong acidic content causes the erosion of the dental enamel. This might lead to teeth loss.
Hoarseness of the voice is another effect of acid reflux. Acid reflux allows the entering of the acid into the esophagus. The acid even enters the larynx, which is located near the esophagus. This acid damages the larynx and this leads to hoarseness. The hoarseness is particularly strong in the morning.
GERD can also lead esophagitis, which is actually an inflammation of the esophagus.
Thus acid reflux or GERD can take toll on the esophagus and other nearby organs. Hence prompt advice and proper medication should be sought to prevent any further medical complications.