Heartburn, or gastric reflux, is problematic for many Americans. It causes you to feel a burn, or pain, in both the stomach and chest. This can really play a negative role in the quality of your life and makes things a great bit less than comfortable. Heartburn occurs when the acids in the stomach flow the wrong way and end up in the esophagus.
The esophagus has a safety measure against allowing the acids to flow upwards. A sphincter acts as a valve in order to stop the acid at the bottom of the esophagus. Some people are not so lucky and this valve leaks because it is either weak or not working correctly. When the pressure is increased on the stomach, or it contains too much food/acids, gastric reflux is often the result.
Gastric reflux is often accompanied by other symptoms: heartburn, dental erosion, indigestion, asthma, regurgitation, hoarseness, pain in the upper abdomen, coughing, nausea, difficulty swallowing and bloating.
There are many things that can make heartburn act up. Eating a big meal that is either spicy or full of fat can make it start up real easily. Food and drink that contains a lot of acid, cigarettes and alcohol can also cause it to flare. The obese or a woman who is facing pregnancy are more likely to become victim to it. It often occurs alongside constipation or hiatal hernias. If you do not deal with it soon more serious illness can occur such as esophagitis, cancer, anemia or ulcers.
When you go to see the doctor they will want to give you a complete physical and will take a close look at your medical history. A battery of tests can be used to confirm a diagnosis. These usually include x-rays, esophageal manometry, endoscopy, biopsy or an acid test taken from your esophagus.
Gastric reflux can cause moderate to severe problems. If the symptoms are mild you can get OTC acid reducers or anti-gas medicines. For severe cases, either a proton pump inhibitor or surgery will be necessary.
There are several things you can do at home to help the problem subside. Make sure that you stay away from fatty/spicy foods, tomatoes, milk, alcohol and coffee. If you think you cannot avoid some of these then keep a diary of which ones cause you the most problems so you can try and wean them out of your diet. Chew your food slowly and make sure that your back is straight when you eat. Loose fitting clothes, and no belt if possible, is a good way to go. This will help to relieve some of the pressure on your abdomen.
Author Resource:-
Dee Braun, a single mom of 6, is a Cert. Aromatherapist & natural health practitioner. Click now to visit Natural Holistic Health Blog which offers info on more natural home remedies & healing techniques for common health & emotional ailments and conditions at http://www.Natural-Holistic-Health.com/
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