Acid Reflux: Symptoms, Causes and Natural Remedies

About Acid Reflux

Gastroesophageal reflux disease, or Acid Reflux, occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) does not close properly and stomach contents leak back, or reflux, into the esophagus.

Symptoms of Acid Reflux

The main symptoms are persistent heartburn and acid regurgitation. Some people have acid reflux without heartburn.

Causes of Acid Reflux

No one knows why people get acid reflux. A hiatal hernia may contribute. A hiatal hernia occurs when the upper part of the stomach is above the diaphragm, the muscle wall that separates the stomach from the chest.

Other factors that may contribute to acid reflux include

• alcohol use
• overweight
• pregnancy
• smoking

Also, certain foods can be associated with reflux events, including

• citrus fruits
• chocolate
• drinks with caffeine
• fatty and fried foods
• garlic and onions
• mint flavorings
• spicy foods
• tomato-based foods, like spaghetti sauce, chili, and pizza

Treatment for Acid Reflux

If you have had heartburn or any of the other symptoms for a while, you should see your doctor.

Lifestyle Changes

• If you smoke, stop.
  
• Do not drink alcohol.
  
• Lose weight if needed.
  
• Eat small meals.
  
• Wear loose-fitting clothes.
  
• Avoid lying down for 3 hours after a meal.
  
• Raise the head of your bed 6 to 8 inches by putting blocks of wood under the bedposts—just using extra pillows will not help.

Medications

Your doctor may recommend over-the-counter antacids, which you can buy without a prescription, or medications that stop acid production or help the muscles that empty your stomach.

Hydrochloric acid and digestive enzymes are sometimes recommended by practitioners of natural medicine in the hope improved digestion will help prevent reflux. However, these therapies have not been researched for their effectiveness.

References for Acid Reflux Article

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• National Institutes of Health