Acid reflux can be a very uncomfortable and troublesome condition. It takes place when the stomach acid comes up from the stomach into the oesophagus, which causes symptoms like heartburn, sore throat, nausea, and bloody vomit. Several lifestyle changes can help reduce or eliminate the possibility of heartburn. Moreover, the condition can be relieved with medication or surgery for those with chronic acid reflux. People with minor symptoms may find adequate relief in lifestyle shifts alone.
What causes acid reflux?
Different factors can result in GERD. However, the most common lifestyle habits that can cause heartburn are-
- Eating large meals before lying down (this causes excess pressure on the lower oesophageal sphincter (LES), which is where the oesophagus and stomach meet)
- Not chewing food well (this can make it harder for the stomach to break down and digest food)
- Slouching puts pressure on the stomach and oesophagus
- Smoking or chewing tobacco (smoking relaxes the lower stomach valve allowing reflux diseases to occur frequently)
- Consuming alcoholic drinks (alcohol relaxes the muscles in the oesophagus, which again causes chest pain and sore throat)
- Taking medications such as muscle relaxers, aspirin, blood pressure medications, and ibuprofen
Excessive body mass puts stress on the stomach and the food pipe. Therefore, being overweight can be a cause of chest pain. If you have GERD, you may need a high degree of treatment. A severe condition of acid reflux is called Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), which can be treated with medication or surgery if necessary.
What are the symptoms of GERD?
When people have heartburn, they may experience symptoms such as the following-
- Sour tang in the mouth and throat
- A painful feeling in the chest
- Regurgitation
- Bloody vomit
- Dry cough
- Sore throat
Some people with such problems also have a chronic cough that often turns worse when lying down. acid reflux can also cause laryngitis if it continues for an extended period because of the damage to the vocal cords. People may identify it when changes in voice tone and volume occur. It can even lead to other illnesses or conditions because of irritation caused by stomach acid leaking into the oesophagus.
What are the effective medications for GERD?
There are many medications available for effective acid reflux treatment. However, not all medications may work effectively for everyone. What works well for one person with heartburn may have little effect on another person. Heartburn medications can be divided into 3 categories:
Antacids
Antacids are one of the most effective over-the-counter medications for acid reflux. They neutralize stomach acid and can be used for minor or occasional chest pain. However, they are less effective in cases of GERD.
Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs)
Proton pump inhibitors work well for many people with frequent heartburn. Acid suppressing medications may take a few days before they become effective. However, proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) act within about 2-12 hours. They are also available over the counter, but you should speak to your doctor before taking any medicines.
Omeprazole 20mg
Lansoprazole 15mg
H2 blockers
H2 blockers can help in relieving acid reflux. They work by blocking histamine receptors, which are located on cells that produce stomach acids. Histamine is the chemical that stimulates these cells to produce stomach acids. By blocking histamine, H2 blockers reduce the amount of stomach acid.
How can natural remedies help?
Natural remedies for heartburn may effectively control GERD symptoms without requiring too much effort from someone experiencing heartburn or similar symptoms. Effective natural remedies are as follows:
Bananas
Bananas can assist in putting off the risk of acid reflux. They have a minor amount of acid, and the vitamins present in this fruit are helpful in relieving chest pain.
Ginger
Ginger is a miracle present in your kitchen. It is healthy and can help alleviate stomach irritation, diminishes the swelling, and impedes the leakage of stomach acid into the oesophagus.
Baking soda
Baking acts as an antacid and eases heartburn and other symptoms caused by reflux issues. In addition to these home treatments, apple cider vinegar, peppermint, chewing gums, and aloe vera juice can help in relieving acid reflux. However, always talk with your healthcare provider before using any remedy for your condition.
Heartburn is often controllable with lifestyle changes and medications. However, sometimes surgery is the only option for people with critical conditions. In addition, there are many natural remedies, which can provide relief from GERD without the need for prescription medication or expensive treatments such as surgery.
How can you prevent acid reflux?
People can do certain things to avoid chest pain and other symptoms. Listed below are some tips to avoid the condition-
Eat smaller pieces of meal
Eating smaller meals instead of large meals will help reduce excessive pressure on the stomach and lower oesophageal sphincter (LES).
Chew your food properly
Chewing food slowly can make it easier for food to digest before reaching the stomach.
Avoid bowing down or lying down frequently
Sitting up straight with feet on the ground will ensure that no excess weight is put on the stomach valve. Small steps can lend you a hand in acid reflux healing.
Stop smoking
Cigarette smoking relaxes the lower oesophageal sphincter (LES), leading to more heartburn.
Decrease alcohol consumption
Alcohol relaxes muscles in the oesophagus. Therefore, you should avoid or consume less alcohol if you have GERD.
Cut off certain foods from your diet
Acid reflux can also be caused by certain foods such as fatty and fried foods, tomato-based products (such as pasta sauce), chocolate, mints, and spices. In addition, you should also stay away from acidic juices. They should not be consumed just before exercise either because they can cause damage to the oesophagus during the phase.
Manage your weight
If people are overweight, losing weight will put less pressure on their stomach and oesophagus, which may help reduce their symptoms of acid reflux over time.
If all these lifestyle changes are unsuccessful at reducing your symptoms, your doctor may prescribe medications to reduce the acidity of the stomach contents. Surgery is another option for cases where medication does not work or is not appropriate. Nevertheless, you and your doctor may sit together and decide the best acid reflux solutions.
