Acid Reflux

November 4, 2011

Acid Reflux Ulcer

Acid reflux occurs when acid from the stomach rises up through the esophagus. This can happen either because the stomach is too full, or because the sphincter, a part of the body that separates the stomach region from the esophagus, is not properly keeping the acid from the stomach from coming up. Some people believe that acid reflux is caused by too much acid in the stomach, but that factor is irrelevant to the problem of avid reflux. Persistent heartburn and acid regurgitation are some of the most common symptoms of acid reflux disease. Acid reflux can also cause pain in the chest and throat and make sufferers feel as if they have food caught in the throat. Medication may be able to help, as well as modifications in diet and exercise.

For sufferers of acid reflux, it is important to avoid overeating, and to avoid eating late at night so that food has a chance to digest. Avoiding spicy, fatty, or acidic foods can also help prevent episodes of acid reflux. Alcohol can also cause or exacerbate acid reflux disease. A long-term consequence of acid reflux can be painful esophageal sores. Many people use antacids or baking soda to treat acid reflux, but it is important not to rely on these treatments for a long-term solution. Finding a solution is extremely important to avoid long-term consequences of acid reflux, damage to the tissues or nerves in the esophagus and mouth, as well as erosion of the teeth. Therefore, treating the problem correctly is important before painful conditions develop.

Ulcers caused by acid reflux are not to be confused with the most commonly known types of ulcers, which occur in the stomach. Stomach ulcers are typically caused by a bacterium in the stomach. These types of ulcers are not the same ones that are caused by acid reflux, which most typically occur in the esophagus rather than the stomach. Medications such as aspirin and ibuprofen can cause ulcers, so it’s best to avoid these if you are prone to ulcers. The causes of ulcers differ from the causes of acid reflux, but similar measures of a healthy lifestyle can help prevent and treat them both. Eating sometimes may alleviate the pain caused by an ulcer. Whole grains and fruits or vegetables that are high in fiber but low in acid content are good foods to eat if you believe you may have an ulcer.

It is important to see a doctor to get a proper diagnosis, whether you suffer from acid reflux, or if you believe you may have an ulcer. Acid reflux affects the chest and throat areas, while an ulcer causes pain in the stomach, although acid reflux can also cause a certain type of ulcer in the mouth and throat when the acid wears away at tissue linings over time.

Getting help for acid reflux is extremely important, before further problems develop and before the condition becomes extremely painful. For relief in treating acid reflux, visit Reflux Remedy at refluxremedy.com today.

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October 27, 2011

Pediatric Reflux

What is Pediatric Reflux?

Acid reflux is a condition where acid and other contents from the stomach flows back into the esophagus. There is a sphincter on the esophagus that prevents contents from the stomach from coming back up. Acid Reflux occurs when this spincter cannot close properly. When acid reflux occurs in children, it is often referred to as pediatric acid reflux. Studies have shown that there are approximately 7 million and infants in the United States who suffer from pediatric reflux.

What are some of the symptoms of pediatric reflux?

Parents will usually be able to tell if that there is something unusual going on with their child. Some of the symptoms of acid reflux include: sore throat, chest pain, trouble sleeping, gagging and hoarseness. The child may also become malnourished and lose weight.

What are some of the causes of pediatric reflux?

Doctors believe that most cases of pediatric reflux can be attributed to a problem with the digestive tract. Overeating is another cause of pediatric reflux. Additionally, certain medications, food and obesity are also possible causes of this condition.

Can a child get complications from pediatric reflux?

It is important to note that many babies will experience a case of pediatric reflux and most of them will grow out of it. However, if this condition is left untreated, complications can result. One of the most common complications associated with pediatric reflux is a damaged esophagus. The reason that this complication is so common is because acid erodes the lining of the esophagus. Untreated Pediatric reflux also increases the chances of the child developing esophageal cancer later in life.

What are some of the treatment options for pediatric reflux?

There are a number of treatment options available. A physician will perform a thorough physical exam and prescribe a treatment based on the findings of that exam. Changing the positioning during feeding time may help alleviate acid reflux in infants. A physician may also advise that the child’s diet be changed. Foods that are acidic, spicy and high in fat have been shown to contribute to pediatric reflux.

If this condition cannot be alleviated by changing the diet or positioning of the infant, the doctor may prescribe a medication. Antacids, acid blockers and barriers are some of the most commonly prescribed medications that are used to treat pediatric reflux. It is important to note that finding the right medication may be a matter of trial and error.

If the child does not respond to any other treatments, the physician may advise doing surgery. Surgery poses several risks to a child, which is why doctors only recommend it as a last resort. The procedure is done by tightening the esophageal spinchter so that acid and other contents cannot flow into the esophagus.

Where can I find more information about pediatric reflux?

People who are looking for more information about pediatric reflux should visit Reflux Remedy at refluxremedy.com today.

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October 18, 2011

Do I Have Acid Reflux

The pain and burning of acid reflux are hard to ignore. If you have a fiery sensation in your chest after consuming certain foods or drinks, you may have acid reflux. Acid reflux occurs when the acids in your stomach that break down the foods you eat rise up into your esophagus, the tube that carries food to your stomach. Also known as heartburn or acid indigestion, acid reflux can make the simple act of digesting a meal difficult and painful. If left untreated, acid reflux may damage the tissues that line your esophagus. Seek medical attention immediately for unexplained pain in your chest or abdomen.

Why Do I Have Acid Reflux?

A ring of muscle called the lower esophageal sphincter, or LES, controls the opening between your stomach and esophagus. When you swallow foods or beverages, the LES opens to allow the food to enter your stomach. In the stomach, digestive acids break down food into small particles. When the LES closes properly, undigested food and acid remain in your stomach. When the LES opens at the wrong times or doesn’t close all the way, acidic digestive materials can rise up into your esophagus – a condition called acid reflux.

Many factors can contribute to acid reflux. During pregnancy, some women have reflux when the growing fetus pushes against the stomach, causing the LES to open at the wrong times. Being overweight can lead to acid reflux, especially if weight is concentrated around your waist. A hiatal hernia, a condition in which your upper stomach pushes above your diaphragm, is a common cause of acid reflux.

Along with physical changes that can cause heartburn, certain foods, drinks and habits often trigger acid reflux. You may notice that you have a painful, burning sensation in your chest after drinking coffee or eating chili, salsa or pizza with spicy sauce. Citrus fruits or juices, garlic, onions, fried or fatty foods, chocolate and mint are common triggers for acid reflux. Lying down immediately after you eat or wearing clothes that fit tightly around your waist can also cause acid reflux.

Is Acid Reflux Serious?

Occasional acid reflux is not uncommon; in fact, many people will experience heartburn at certain times. You may find that if you avoid specific foods that increase the acid content in your stomach, like spicy tomato sauce, black coffee or chili with raw onions, you can avoid flare-ups of acid reflux. However, if you have persistent heartburn more than twice a week, you may have a more serious condition called gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD.

The frequent exposure of your esophagus to digestive acid can harm the tissues that line your esophagus. In addition to chronic acid reflux, people with GERD may develop throat pain when they swallow, hoarseness or a painful cough. Scar tissue on the esophagus can lead to narrowing of the passageway, which makes swallowing difficult. Fortunately, acid reflux can be treated with changes in your diet, modifications in your lifestyle and an effective reflux remedy. For more information on acid reflux be sure to visit Reflux Remedy at refluxremedy.com today!

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October 11, 2011

Healing Acid Reflux

Acid reflux is a condition that many people suffer with every day. It’s the result of gastric acids traveling up the esophagus from the stomach. There are many causes of acid reflux, and the symptoms vary in severity from person to person. Once an individual is diagnosed with acid reflux disease, there are various ways it can be treated. Healing the condition is possible, but it may take some trial and error.

If you have symptoms of acid reflux disease, there are several steps you can take to find relief.

Common Acid Reflux symptoms include:

  • heartburn
  • excessive burping
  • unrelenting hiccups
  • nausea
  • regurgitation
  • difficulty swallowing.

When these issues become severe, it may be the sign of a more serious disease. It’s a good idea to speak with your physician about your symptoms.

For mild cases of acid reflux, basic lifestyle changes may alleviate the pain. If you are overweight, it may be causing your acid reflux. Changing your diet and eating nutritious, balanced meals may combat the problem. Alcohol, caffeine and nicotine can also contribute to acid reflux. Limiting your intake of these substances may greatly reduce your symptoms. Stress produces stomach acid, so practicing relaxation techniques after meals may also help.

Some foods may cause acid reflux. To decrease the likelihood of getting acid reflux after a meal, avoid spicy foods like garlic, hot peppers or onions. Fatty foods, chocolate and citrus fruits should be avoided as well. Vegetables such as cauliflower, cabbage and broccoli may also increase the amount of acid in your stomach. Lowering the acidity in your digestive tract can lessen the chance of reflux.

There are certain foods you can consume to heal your acid reflux. To improve your digestion and soothe your heartburn, drink cold milk or apple cider with each meal. You can also drink herbal tea with lavender to control indigestion. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day will help regulate the acidity in your stomach. You can add ginger root to your meal as well. Ginger absorbs acid, so some excess in your stomach will be soaked up.

Eating small meals frequently throughout the day will keep your stomach active and emptying regularly. Chew gum after each meal to produce saliva. The alkaline in it stabilizes stomach acid. Do not lay down within two hours of eating, and sleep with your head raised several inches. Certain medications can also heal acid reflux disease. Antacids containing aluminum hydroxide and magnesium hydroxide neutralize stomach acid. Histamine-2 blockers suppress acid, and foaming agents coat the stomach to stop reflux.

Acid reflux disease is painful and frustrating, and it can affect your everyday life. The problem can be treated if you understand the causes of your condition. In addition to healing acid reflux, you can take preventative measures to ensure the problems do not return. It is a good idea to seek the advice of health care professional before beginning any treatment. Acid reflux disease can be healed, and it does not have to rule your life. For more information and ways to heal acid reflux, be sure to visit Reflux Remedy at www.refluxremedy.com today!

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