Acid Reflux Syndrome
Understanding acid reflux syndrome is pretty easier. The symptoms that the body shows make it quite clear for a person to diagnose that he may be suffering from acid reflux syndrome. Imagine yourself lying down after a sumptuous meal that you helped yourself to. While you are still in the thoughts of the delicacies that you just savored on, your body starts preparation to tell you that the food did not suit it. Heartburn, a burning sensation down your food pipe and the sternum area (backbone) can leave you irritated. This can be accompanied by coughing and drying of throat. All these signs when appear frequently enough – say 2, 3 times a week are good enough indications that you may have acid reflux syndrome. What Causes Acid Reflux Syndrome? Acid reflux syndrome is medically known as Gastro Esophageal Reflux Disease (GERD). This is a condition characterized by the reflux of the stomach acids (along with food and bile) into the esophagus, commonly known as the food pipe. This is a disorder of the digestive system. At times, this can even accompany regurgitation of the food into the mouth, filling it with a sour taste. Acid reflux syndrome is caused due to the faulty working of the esophageal sphincter valve. The sphincter valve is located in the passage between the esophagus and the stomach and prevents the food from moving out during digestion process in the stomach. In case of acid reflux syndrome, the sphincter valve looses it strength and therefore opens up under the pressure of stomach acids, to allow the contents of the stomach to move into food pipe. Symptoms of Acid Reflux Syndrome The symptoms associated with acid reflux syndrome are severe heartburn and irritation and inflammation of the throat. This is associated with chest pain (sometimes leading to the backbone area). Severity of the chest pain can be such that many people assume it to be a heart attack. Apart from the above mentioned symptoms of acid reflux syndrome, there can be a dry feeling in the throat, heavy burping and even chronic coughing. Some people may also find difficulties in swallowing and heaviness of voice. There may be vomiting in some cases or even a stomach ache. The symptoms of acid reflux syndrome may slightly vary from one individual to the other. Treatment for Acid Reflux Syndrome Treatments for acid reflux syndrome can be varied from prescription and over the counter medications to homeopathic medicines and also home made natural remedies. In some cases doctors can also suggest surgery, though it is rare. However, one important point to be kept in mind is that acid reflux syndrome is largely related to an improper lifestyle. Hence, whichever treatment one may opt for, it is certain that one has to make changes in his lifestyle. Opting for an active and healthy lifestyle by including exercises and good eating habits and simple food can go a long way in treating acid reflux syndrome. Over the counter drugs such as antacids help one get instant relief from heartburn and other symptoms associated with acid reflux syndrome. Apart from these, there are prescription medications that help block or regulate the acid production in the stomach. Natural methods include avoiding acid forming foods, alcohol, caffeine etc. People with acid reflux syndrome should also avoid red meat and dairy products. Yogurt however, is known to help. Avoiding lying down immediately after meals is a good practice to prevent acid reflux syndrome.
|
