In some patients, acid can reflux into the throat causing inflammation of the back of the throat which can lead to pharyngitis, or into the vocal cords, which can lead to laryngitis and hoarseness. Although there are many other causes for sore throat and laryngitis, GERD should be suspected in a patient with chronic sore throat or other GERD symptoms or when no other cause can be found.

Severe burns are a form of traumatic injury because they cause serious tissue damage and fluid loss. The body reacts by launching an inflammatory response.

Severe, long-standing GERD can damage the esophagus and cause a condition known as Barrett's esophagus wherein the normal lining of the esophagus is replaced by a lining more like that of the stomach or intestine. It is thought that this replacement may be an attempt by the body to protect itself from further injury by acid. The risk of esophageal cancer appears to increase significantly in patients with Barrett's esophagus. The only way to diagnose Barrett's esophagus is by endoscopy.

GERD stands for Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease. Gastroesophageal reflux describes a backflow of acid from the stomach into the swallowing tube or esophagus. Almost everyone experiences gastroesophageal reflux at some time. The usual symptom is heartburn, an uncomfortable burning sensation behind the breastbone, most commonly occurring after a meal. In some individuals this reflux is frequent or severe enough to cause more significant problems, that is a disease.

Yes, you most certainly can. Remember, all Dead Sea products (bath salts, mud masks, etc.) contain the same minerals in varying concentrations. Both soaking in a tub with a cup of Dead Sea Magic Mineral? Bath Salts or slapping on some of the Dead Sea Magic Mineral? Mud Mask will have many of the same benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties.

Systemic inflammation is thought to be caused by a massive release of cytokines that spreads throughout the body. if it is severe and unchecked, it can lead to organ failure and death.

The four major symptoms of GERD are: q Heartburn (uncomfortable, rising, burning sensation behind the breastbone). q Regurgitation of gastric acid or sour contents into the mouth. q Difficult and/or painful swallowing. q Chest pain. Heartburn is the most common symptom of GERD. In some patients it may be accompanied by other GERD symptoms, such as regurgitation of gastric contents into the mouth, chest pain and difficulty swallowing.

What causes GERD? GERD is caused by reflux of stomach acid into the esophagus. In most patients this is due to a transient relaxation of the "gate" or sphincter that keeps the lower end of the esophagus closed when a person is not swallowing food or liquids. This transient relaxation happens a few times each day in people without GERD. Why it happens more frequently in GERD patients isn't known. The esophagus is not able to cope with acid as well as the stomach and is easily injured.

GERD afflicts people of every socioeconomic class, ethnic group and age. However, the incidence does seem to increase quite dramatically above the age of 40. Greater than 50 percent of those afflicted with GERD are between the ages of 45-64 (both male and female).

Only a minority of patients develop complications of GERD. These complications include breaks in the lining of the esophagus (esophageal erosions), esophageal ulcer, and narrowing of the esophagus (esophageal stricture). In some patients, the normal esophageal lining or epithelium may be replaced with abnormal (Barrett's) epithelium. This condition (Barrett's esophagus) has been linked to cancer of the esophagus and must be carefully watched.

Smoking doesn't cause GERD and there is little evidence that smoking significantly worsens GERD. Stopping smoking is a good idea anyway.

Unfortunately, GERD, in general, cannot be cured at present. In some cases, it may be a temporary condition associated with a specific aggravating factor such as pregnancy. In such cases, GERD will go away on its own when the pregnancy has ended. In most cases GERD is a chronic condition. However, it can be effectively managed with medications and lifestyle modifications in almost everybody. In severe cases, surgery is an option.

If you think you might have GERD - see your doctor who can determine if you have GERD and, if so, can evaluate its severity.

A strep throat is a bacterial infection caused by the streptococcus bacteria. A strep throat mainly affects the area that surrounds the tonsils and often accompanies tonsillitis. Streptococcus bacteria can also cause scarlet fever, pneumonia, sinusitis, and ear infections. Laboratory studies have shown that Manuka Honey can fight streptococcus bacteria. Manuka Honey is soothing and helps relieve the sore throat with its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.

Generally an actor (like William Shatner or Barbara Eden - both of whom recorded at Gold Star) who recorded a vocal album to satisfy their fans. The late Don Ralke was our expert at bringing out the best in these people as they were often unskilled or inexperienced singers.