Acid reflux occurs when stomach acid backs up into the esophagus. The muscular tube that joins your throat and stomach is known as the esophagus.
The most frequent symptom of acid reflux is heartburn, a burning sensation in your chest. A sour or regurgitated meal flavor in the back of your mouth is another symptom.
Acid reflux is often referred to as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GER). You may have gastroesophageal reflux disease if you have it more than twice a week (GERD). GERD symptoms include trouble swallowing, coughing or breathing, and chest pain, in addition to recurrent heartburn.
Most people suffer from acid reflux and heartburn on occasion. However, GERD is a more serious illness that affects approximately 20% of Americans. According to a study published in the journal Digestive Diseases and SciencesTrusted Source, the prevalence of GERD is increasing.
Discover how you can prevent acid reflux and heartburn. You may find relief through lifestyle modifications, medication, or surgery.
Acid Reflux and Heartburn Risk Factors
Acid reflux and heartburn can affect anyone at any time. You may encounter these symptoms, for example, if you eat too quickly. Also, you might notice them if you eat much spicy food or high-fat sweets.
If you are overweight or obese, you are more prone to get GERD.
Are expecting, have diabetes and smoke.
Some cases of GERD may be exacerbated by eating disorders such as anorexia and bulimia nervosa. “People who induce vomiting, or have in the past,” says Jacqueline L. Wolf, M.D., an associate professor of medicine at Harvard Medical School, “may have an increased risk of heartburn.”
Changes in Lifestyle
A few lifestyle adjustments can usually prevent occasional or moderate bouts of acid reflux. As an example:
After a meal, avoid resting down for three hours.
Smaller meals should be had more often throughout the day.
Avoid putting pressure on your abdomen by wearing loose-fitting clothing. Finally, get rid of unwanted weight.
Stop smoking.
Place wooden blocks under your bedposts to raise the head of your bed by six to eight inches. Another option for doing this is to use bed risers.
A variety of foods can cause acid reflux and heartburn. Take note of how you feel after consuming various things. Your triggers could be fatty or fried items.
- alcohol
- coffee
- soda and other carbonated beverages
- chocolate
- garlic\sonions
- clementines
- tomato peppermint spearmint sauce
- Avoid some foods if you develop acid reflux or heartburn after eating them.
