Acid
Reflux and Heartburn
The
reverse passage of gastric contents into the food pipe or esophagus is acid
reflux, which is known to cause heartburn. Heartburn is an uncomfortable
feeling in the chest - a result of acid reflux. There are various causes of acid reflux
which can lead to heartburn.
The
entrance of the stomach has a ring of muscle or a valve called the sphincter.
This muscle is supposed to open to allow passage of food and close later. If
the muscle opens too often or doesn't close properly, the acid from the stomach
can enter the esophagus.
An
acid reflux can be triggered by the food one eats. High-fat meats, fried or
greasy food and whole milk products can relax the valve. Coffee, caffeinated
drinks, alcohol and spicy food stimulates excess acid production. Large meals,
snacks close to bedtime and lying down immediately after eating are known
triggers of a reflux.
Obesity
increases the chances of an acid reflux due to the increased pressure on the
stomach, which forcefully opens the valve after a meal. Stress can worsen the
symptoms of a reflux.
The
weakness of the sphincter muscle or too much acid and not much protective
mucous also causes heartburn, a direct result of a reflux. A condition called
hiatus hernia, where parts of the stomach move up through the diaphragm increases the chances of an acid reflux.
Pain
relievers like aspirin or ibuprofen, muscle relaxers and blood pressure
medicines can stimulate an acidreflux. Pregnancy, smoking and certain habits
are also known causes.
Patients
suffering from acid reflux, having questions on it can visit Refluxmd for
complete details.
How to
Get Rid of Heartburn
Occasional
heartburn can be fixed quickly. For those suffering from it can take antacids
from a pharmacy. Antacids neutralize stomach acids to provide relief. H-2-receptor
antagonists (H2RAs), may also be used to cure heartburn. They may take longer
to work but provide long lasting relief. Proton pump inhibitors can reduce
stomach acid, which can reduce the chances of a reflux.
Certain
foods help in managing acid reflux. Ginger, apples and bananas are good for the
stomach and can help in alleviating the discomfort that follows an acid reflux.
Green smoothies and plain oatmeal have fibers that absorb acid and cut off the
main cause of a reflux. Caffeine relaxes the lower
esophageal sphincter and must be avoided. Vegetables that are high in
alkaline balance the pH level in your stomach and reduces inflammation from a
backflow. Choose food that is low in fat and spice if you suffer from
heartburn. Avoid citrus, alcohol, chocolate and carbonated beverages.
Opt
for clothes aren't too tight on the stomach area. Tight clothes will increase
the pressure on the stomach. Do not lie down right after meals. Try sleeping
with the top portion of the body at an elevation. This action will prevent
backflow or at least make it difficult for acid to flow back.
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