Acid Reflux

Acid reflux disease, also known as Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) or gastric reflux disease, is one of the most common conditions experienced by people all over the world. It can be a disorder in itself or a symptom of some other medical disorder. This condition occurs due to the abnormal functioning of the lower sphincter muscles which causes the acid in the stomach to seep back in the esophagus. Acid reflux disease in itself is not a life-threatening condition, but, if it continues for a longer period of time, it turns chronic and can lead to esophageal cancer or gastric ulcer. Let us take a look at the causes and symptoms of this disease.

Acid Reflux Causes
Acid or gastric reflux is mostly caused due to improper diet and eating habits. Eating heavy and larger meals; eating excess spicy and fried foods, citrus foods, chocolate; having coffee or tea in large amounts can lead to this condition. Also, certain habits like lying down or bending immediately after having a meal is one of the causes of acid or gastric reflux. On the other hand, obesity, smoking and alcoholism are also termed as causes of acid reflux. Similarly, gastric reflux can also be a symptom of diseases like hiatal hernia. GERD is one of the common conditions experienced during pregnancy.

Signs and Symptoms
Chest pain and heartburn are the most significant symptoms of this condition. These symptoms are similar to those of heart diseases and hence, one needs to be careful and look out for other identifying acid or gastric reflux symptoms. The following are the acid reflux symptoms in women and men:

• Dyspepsia
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Indigestion
• Abdominal pain
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Difficulty in swallowing
• Stomach upset
• Regurgitation

Children may be very irritable and complain of loss of appetite. If one experiences any other symptoms along with the above mentioned symptoms, it is recommended to consult a doctor as there can be a possibility of a severe disorder. Otherwise, gastric reflux can be treated with medications and home remedies.

Acid Reflux Treatment
There are several medications like antacids, H2 blockers and PP inhibitors that are meant for GERD treatment. Antacids are available in the form of pills, tablets and syrups and are very effective for faster but temporary relief. In order to gain permanent relief from it, one needs to make changes in the diet and lifestyle. One of the best ways to prevent this disease is to abstain from smoking and consuming alcohol. As obesity is considered as one of the gastric reflux causes, it needs to be controlled by following appropriate weight loss plans. Natural remedies for acid reflux includes having buttermilk or coconut water after meal to reduce acidity. Apart from all these methods, the most important aspect of gastric reflux treatment is following a healthy diet and staying away from foods that cause it. One should also change one's dietary habits and have smaller and frequent meals rather than larger ones. It is also not advisable to have a heavy meal at night. Similarly, one should not lie down or sleep immediately after having meals. Let us take a look at the diet for gastric reflux in detail.

Acid Reflux Diet
The following is a list of foods safe to consume and those to avoid to prevent GERD:

Foods to be Avoided

• Citrus fruits, peppers, cranberry juice, onion
• Coffee, tea and soda
• Tomatoes and all tomato-based products
• Peppermint, chocolates, ice cream and cheese
• Sausages, fried meat, deli meat

Foods Safe to Consume

• All fruits and vegetables
• Whole grains, multi-grain products, brown rice
• Egg white, fish, steak, boiled meat
• Fat free dairy products

Lastly, if one experiences gastric reflux frequently, and the symptoms do not subside on taking treatment, it is advisable to consult a doctor as soon as possible. Take care!