Acid reflux is a very common condition with thousands of sufferers. Acid reflux occurs when the barrier between the stomach and esophagus that is meant to protect the esophagus from stomach acids malfunctions causing the acids and enzymes of the stomach to escape into the esophagus causing a burning sensation. The barrier, also known as the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), normally holds the top of the stomach closed acting as a protective shield. A stomach abnormality, called hiatal hernia, is what occurs when the LES moves above the diaphragm which separates the stomach from the chest. The diaphragm is there to help keep the acid in the stomach if there isn’t any proper protection in place, the esophagus and the stomach eventually suffers.

A few symptoms that you may like to know for acid reflux include, but are not limited to:

• Heartburn: This is the most common (and often the most uncomfortable) symptom of acid reflux. Heartburn generally manifest as a burning sensation in the chest cavity. The burn in the chest has, however, been known to travel down into the abdomen and even up into the esophagus area (the throat). If the heartburn is experienced as a stabbing or abrupt sensation as opposed to its usually gradual nature it can often be mistaken as a heart attack.
• Regurgitation: This is the expulsion of food and drinks from the mouth by way of the esophagus. This is done involuntary when it is a symptom of acid reflux. This act of regurgitating is generally preceded by a sour or bitter taste in the mouth that is shortly followed by strong salivation then the expulsion ensues.
• Dysphagia: Dysphagia is a narrowing of the esophagus. When the esophagus narrows it can create a feeling that the throat is closing. This can make is difficult to swallow foods and drinks. Difficulty swallowing food and drinks can cause other health related issues if it isn’t urgently tended to.

Sufferers of acid reflux may grow to know that there are many natural cures for the condition. The trick is to find the cure that works best for you. Don’t be afraid of a little trial and error to discover the curing method that suits you best. A few natural cures include:

• Drinking lots of water: Be sure to drink water before, during and after meals. Water aids in diluting the acids in your stomach which in turn minimizes reflux symptoms.
• Try eating smaller meals more often: Eating smaller meals allows for your stomach to breakdown and process each meal without being forced to overwork to break down large meal consumption.
• Try drinking aloe vera juice: Amongst several other healing properties, aloe also has the ability to the acids in your stomach which will significantly reduce the risk of acids escaping the stomach making way into the esophagus.
• Keep a food log and find the foods that are right for you: Trigger foods vary from person to person. Be sure to find the foods that cause less acid reflux irritation.

Follow these natural cures to see if you the results are satisfying. If you’d like more natural cures please feel free to visit refluxremedy.com.

Chronic acid reflux, also known as Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), is a condition that primarily affects the stomach and the esophagus. Chronic acid reflux disease is a result of an improperly functioning lower esophageal sphincter (LES) muscle. This muscle is located at the top of the stomach and at the bottom of the esophagus. The sole purpose of this muscle is to act as a barrier between the stomach and the esophagus protecting both from potential hazards. Mechanically, food travels from the mouth, down the esophagus in hopes of smoothly transition to the stomach. When food is traveling down the esophagus the LES opens up allowing the food to travel into the stomach and the muscle closes immediately after the food passes through.

When the LES malfunctions the muscle isn’t properly closing after food passes or it is opening too frequently. The open LES allows for stomach acids to leak up into the esophagus causing what is known as heartburn or acid reflux. If this happens occasionally, there is no need to be alarmed as your acid reflux is not chronic. If this heartburn happens two or more times a week you are likely suffering from chronic acid reflux. If not properly tended to, chronic acid reflux disease has been known to cause more serious health conditions.

It is not really clear as to why some people suffer from chronic acid reflux while others never seem to have a problem. Many speculate that a hiatal hernia is a great contributing factor. A hiatal hernia is a stomach abnormality that occurs when the LES and the upper part of the stomach move above the diaphragm. A major function of the diaphragm is to serve as the muscle that helps keep acids in your stomach. If you are suffering from a hiatal hernia the acids in your stomach acids can move up into your esophagus causing acid reflux symptoms.

There are many other factors that can lead to chronic acid reflux. Most of these factors are related to your daily diet. There are certain foods and drinks that can trigger acid reflux in those that are prone to the condition. If you are likely to drink soda, coffee or other caffeinated drinks you may want to eliminate these drinks and opt instead for a glass of water. Drinking water before, during and after meals works wonders for aiding in the digestive process. It also soothers the esophagus if you are experiencing heartburn.

Fried and fatty foods, though tasty, can be extremely hazardous not only in terms of acid reflux, but also in terms of health. Try eating healthy and see if your chronic acid reflux persists. Salads, vegetables and hearty fruits are always great alternatives.

See if you can eliminate bad habits. If you are a smoker, stop. If you notice that you are an overeater or that you are overweight, do what you can to control portions and lose weight. Eating smaller portions several times a day should ultimately help.

Make the necessary changes to nip your chronic acid reflux in the bud. Your health will thank you for it.