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Acid reflux causes the burning pain experienced in the chest when acid from the stomach goes back up into the esophagus. This happens when the lower esophagus muscle does not completely close when food passes through. Many refer to it as heartburn as well. Some common symptoms may include; a burning in the chest area, burping, hiccups, chest pain, chronic sore throat, and bloating, among others. Though usually, this type of occurrence is temporary or acute, a chronic issue can cause long-term problems. Here are 5 things you should know about acid reflux.
Things You Should Know about Acid Reflux #1: Triggers
Certain foods can cause acid reflux either because of their high acidity or of the direct effect they have on the stomach. Caffeine, garlic, onions, chocolate, vinegar, and sodas may cause acid reflux for either reason. Some of the common medicines like painkillers, antidepressants, asthma medication and sedatives are also associated with acid reflux. On the other hand, antacid medication will not cure the problem, they elevate it. To understand how they work, see more details at Refluxgate. It is important to note that not everyone suffers from acid reflux after taking these drugs or foods.
Things You Should Know about Acid Reflux #2: It Can Affect Anyone
There was a time when it was thought that acid reflux only affected overweight, middle-aged people. However, this is simply not true. With the standard American diet (SAD), acid reflux and other digestive ailments can affect anyone at any time in their life. According to recent statistics, a whopping sixty million Americans experience acid reflux.
However, this does not discard the fact that being overweight and aging causes the problem. Your body’s mechanism to prevent the occurrence of acid reflux declines as you age and when you gain weight because of the pressure the extra weight puts on the diaphragm.
Things You Should Know about Acid Reflux #3: Sleeping Position Can Affect It
Surprisingly, sleeping with your head raised up can prevent a reflux episode from occurring. Laying this way will reduce the possibility of acid moving up into the esophagus. This is according to studies, which also encourage sleeping on your left side. Laying on your right side boosts transient LES relaxations which are otherwise linked to reflux. It can also help to make sure not to lay down for at least an hour after any meal or snack.
Things You Should Know about Acid Reflux #4: It Can Be Serious
If ignored, acid reflux can lead to serious health issues like esophageal cancer which is said to be on the rise in America. Other common health problems it may cause include esophageal, stomach and lung inflammation which can later result in vocal cord polyps, ulcers, and even pneumonia. Occasional heartburn is manageable, but Dr. Lawrence Cohen from Toronto recommends that one should see a doctor if they experience prolonged episodes of heartburn.
Things You Should Know about Acid Reflux #5: It Is Treatable
Most triggers of acid reflux are part of a lifestyle that can be changed. For instance, you can change your diet and eliminate foods and beverages that stimulate acid reflux. Also quitting drinking alcohol and smoking can help stop reflux. Putting on loose-fitting clothes to ensure no pressure on the abdomen after meals can go a long way to preventing acid reflux problems. Dietary changes and understanding the triggers of acid reflux are the most effective ways to help curb the effects of acid reflux. Remember to consult with your doctor for more details and advice about how to treat and even end any digestive issues.
**** This post is strictly informational and is not meant to replace the advice of your healthcare provider. Women’s lifelink, it’s owners, administrators, contributors, affiliates, vendors, authors and editors do not claim that this information will diagnose, treat, or improve any condition or disease.
