The article " The Scary Side Of Heartburn", by Leah Mc Laughlin explains how Gastroesophegeal Reflux Disease (GERD) is commonly over looked. Mc Laughlin describes GERD as a malfunction of the sphincter muscle. This malfunction occurs when the sphincter muscle fails to protect the esophagus from stomach acid. It's failure causes acid to travel into the esophagus causing what is known as "heartburn". People with GERD can expect heartburn several times a day. Mc Laughlin adds that people who suffer heartburn symptoms as little as twice a week may also have GERD. Mc Laughlin explains how GERD is further complicated by the consumption of antacids at the time of heartburn. Long use of antacid to remedy GERD only increases its danger level. Antacids end up assisting the development of a precancerous state. Sadly, doctors do not know how GERD is acquired. Mc Laughlin list possible reasons for acquiring GERD which range from smoking to even pregnancy. Other signs of GERD include people who are asthmatic, overweight or consume large quantities of coffee or alcohol. The good news Mc Laughlin explains is that if detected early, by incorporating a few lifestyle changes such as diet and proper medication, GERD can be effectively controlled.
             The article the "Scary Side Of Heartburn," by Leah McLaughlin taught me that GERD is a disease that more often than not has deadly consequences if not diagnosed early. The scary reality of GERD is that there is no real government-approved medication to successfully treat GERD. Mc Laughlin states, "Ironically, taking antacids can make GERD more dangerous because it may delay proper treatment". Over the counter antacids taken to relieve GERD, is what actually causes the pecancerous condition known as "Barrett's esophagus". Once cancer takes hold of the esophagus, more often than not, death occurs. Mc Laughlin states, "Esophageal c
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