Harmless heartburn or rampant reflux?

Harmless heartburn or rampant reflux?

Most people experience acid reflux in their stomach at some point in their lives, either as heartburn or acid reflux. When refluxed stomach acid touches the lining of the esophagus, it causes a burning sensation in the chest or throat called heartburn. The burning, pressure, or pain of heartburn can last up to 2 hours and is often worse after eating.

People who eat too quickly or don't chew their food enough may have symptoms of indigestion or heartburn. Spicy foods, coffee and cola drinks are other common causes. To minimize heartburn, I recommend avoiding large meals. Try to divide your food intake into smaller, more manageable portions and avoid eating right before bed.

Heartburn that occurs regularly may be a sign of a more serious condition called gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Another related cause of heartburn is a hiatal hernia, in which a small portion of the stomach protrudes through the gastric sphincter. However, many people with heartburn do not have a hiatal hernia.

If heartburn or acid regurgitation is rare, medicines such as antacids purchased from a chemist can be used. Self-treating heartburn and indigestion is easier and more effective than ever thanks to highly effective antacids and new H2 blockers.

Peptrol should be used for relief of simple heartburn, acid indigestion, esophageal irritation, ulcer relief, gerd and upset stomach. Antacids and acid reducers, which have long been readily available, are used to relieve acute heartburn symptoms. Prevacid can give you relief from heartburn associated with acid reflux disease for up to 24 hours day and night.

Some people also claim great results with natural methods and herbs.

When treating indigestion or heartburn, herbs can do everything that synthetic drugs claim to do. Since heartburn sometimes involves a reflux of stomach acid into the esophagus, chamomile's anti-inflammatory properties may also be useful. It is also claimed that eating several almonds can relieve heartburn and eating lemons or lemon peel before meals is another suggestion.

Many women experience heartburn for the first time during pregnancy, and although it is common and harmless, it can be quite uncomfortable. 25 percent of pregnant women experience heartburn daily, and more than 50 percent experience occasional distress. During pregnancy, medical treatment for reflux should be balanced to relieve the symptoms of heartburn while protecting the developing fetus.

If you have frequent or very severe heartburn, or if over-the-counter medications do not work for you, contact your doctor immediately.

Inspired by Antony Wilton