Heartburn Acid Reflux

Oh, the dreadful heartburn! Those suffering from acid reflux know all too well how the onset of heartburn associated with acid reflux disease can stop you dead in your tracks. What is it about heartburn that causes it to happen at the most inopportune times (as if any time is the most opportune time for such a disgraceful symptom)? You’ve just enjoyed a perfectly delightful meal and then you pay for it. The taste of the food was so great that it overshadowed the possibilities of what was to come. Then the heartburn ensues. That tasty meal doesn’t seem so worthwhile after all, does it?

Here’s what’s happening to your body when this happens just so you can get a better understanding: When you eat, there is a valve that is also a muscular ring at the top of your stomach that is known as the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). The LES should close as soon as food passes through it. If the LES neglects to do so, or if the LES opens too often, this allows for the acids in your stomach to escape to the esophagus causing a burn that we refer to as heartburn. Though heartburn is generally felt in the chest and throat there have been cases where the burn makes its way to the abdominal region. If you experience this type of burn two or more times a week, you may suffer from acid reflux disease.

The cause of acid reflux heartburn varies from person to person. One of the main causes is a stomach abnormality called a Hiatal hernia. A Hiatal hernia occurs when the LES and upper part of the stomach move above the diaphragm which separates the stomach from the chest. The diaphragm assist in keeping acids in the stomach but if you are suffering from a Hiatal hernia the acids have room to move into the esophagus causing heartburn and other acid reflux symptoms.

Other symptoms of acid reflux include, but are not limited to, regurgitation which is an expulsion from the mouth of recently consumed food and drinks. Regurgitation usually starts with a sour or bitter taste in the mouth that is followed by a heavy salivation of the mouth giving a clear sign that regurgitation is about to take place.

Dysphagia is also a symptom. Dysphagia is a narrowing of the esophagus that causes food and drink to feel like it is stuck in the esophagus with no way of passing through. Many people who suffer from this symptom develop a fear of eating which can eventually lead to other medical issues.

Nausea is another known side effect of acid reflux disease. Nausea can be due to hyperactive stomach acids which can also create an apprehension to eat.

If you notice any of these symptoms you may want to consider eliminating foods such as tomato, citrus, chocolate, mint, garlic, onions, spicy and fatty foods from your diet. Also, opt for water instead of reaching for carbonated or alcoholic drinks. These foods and drinks tend to be acid reflux triggers, so avoid them at all cost.

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