Acid reflux is a serious pain for people who suffer with the discomfort and embarrassment it brings. Today we’re looking at the common causes of acid reflux, and the best ways to find relief. While this condition is quite discomforting, there are steps you can take to ease your symptoms.
Acid Reflux
Causes
Acid reflux occurs when lower esophageal sphincter, or LES, is too slow to close, allowing stomach acid to splash up into your esophagus. This stomach acid, as you might expect, is incredibly uncomfortable to have rolling around in organs it wasn’t meant to be in. The presence of this acid can lead to chest pain commonly known as heartburn.
Some common reasons the LES could be failing to keep your stomach acid down are hiatal hernias, lying down after a large meal, smoking, being overweight or being pregnant. There are other factors that could contribute to acid reflux, as well. If you experience heartburn more than twice a week, you may have acid reflux disease.
The Science
When your stomach acid is where it’s supposed to be (you know, your stomach) it doesn’t cause you any discomfort due to your stomach lining. The stomach is constantly creating a thin mucus membrane that resists the acidic properties of the very chemical it makes to break down food. Your esophagus, however, doesn’t have such natural protection.
Treatments
Eating smaller meals more frequently is one quick way to address heartburn. Big meals are a common trigger for acid reflux, so eating lighter meals at a higher frequency is advised for common sufferers. If you smoke, consider quitting, as it will have a number of health benefits. This includes potentially curbing heartburn.
Make sure you don’t eat too close to bedtime. Generally, you want to eat at least two hours before it’s time for bed. Additionally, when you’re eating, avoid wearing tight clothes. If your symptoms come from being overweight, taking steps to lose weight could also lead to a decrease in heartburn.
Medications
If lifestyle and diet changes are having no effect, there are a few medications you could try. Namely, antacids are a way to help neutralize stomach acid and calm down the worst symptoms. H2 blockers, proton pump inhibitors and foaming agents are all popular choices.
Medications like Pepcid, Gaviscon and Aciphex are commonly taken by sufferers to help abate symptoms. Remember, don’t take more than one type of antacid medication: they’re not meant to be mixed together.