Acid reflux or GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) occurs when stomach liquid ‘refluxes’ or backs up into the esophagus. In many patients, this condition could cause damage and inflammation of the esophagus lining. The severity may range from mild to uncomfortable to very serious. The liquid from stomach is consisted of acid, pepsin and bile, which may cause burning sensation and pain on the exposed tissue of the esophagus.
In many cases, acid reflux can be considered a chronic condition and once someone starts to feel the symptoms of acid reflux, they are typically plagued for life. It may require some time for esophagus to heal and the condition may reoccur if the treatment stops. This is a reason why those with acid reflux should continue their lifelong treatments.
Although acid reflux can be potentially harmful, our body has a way of minimizing its effects. Often, acid reflux happens after eating when people are sitting. The liquid typically goes back into the stomach by following the path of gravity. Saliva could partially neutralize the acid that’s present on the esophagus.
Almost anyone can be affected by acid reflux, but some people are more likely suffer more serious symptoms. Pregnant women often experience heartburn symptoms, which could subside after delivery. In this case, the fetus puts some pressure on the digestive organs, causing the fluid to interact with the esophagus more easily. Illnesses that affect the esophagus muscles could also cause patients to be more susceptible to heartburn.
Acid reflux may be a troublesome condition, but people can take advantage of several treatment options. Counter products could provide some relief from the chronic pain and there are also natural remedies to choose. Cinnamon is often recommended during the treatment and people may nibble on the cinnamon toast to partially alleviate the symptoms.
Another easy way to manage acid reflux is by avoiding specific foods. Sufferers of acid reflux may need to avoid food with high fat content, such as full-cream dairy products, high fat meats and fried foods. Coffee, tea, sodas and any caffeinated beverage may also aggravate the condition to some degree. In some people, chocolate is often considered as the culprit.
It’s always a good idea to consume food with no or little acidity in them; including green beans, peas, carrots, cabbage, broccoli, bananas and apple. Food should help to maintain the balance the acidity in the stomach, instead of making the condition worse. Some proportion of grains could be added to the daily diet, since this component may aid in digestion.
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