Acid indigestion, also called heartburn, causes a burning sensation in the chest and throat, usually after eating, bending over or lying down. It occurs when stomach acid rises up and sometimes leaves a bitter or sour taste in the back of the throat. A valve in the esophagus normally opens and closes to allow food or liquids into the stomach. When the valve does not close properly, acid reflux results, and digestive juices from the stomach back up.
Benefits
Antacids available over the counter in tablet or liquid form provide relief for many people who experience occasional acid indigestion. Chewing the tablets thoroughly before swallowing usually brings quick relief, the Cleveland Clinic says. Acid blockers reduce the production of stomach acid to relieve acid indigestion and sour stomach. Acid blockers do not work as quickly as antacids, but act as prevention for people who know they may get heartburn.
Considerations
People who are aware of the food and beverages that trigger their acid indigestion can avoid those foods and drinks to alleviate heartburn. Eating smaller meals can also prevent acid indigestion. Larger meals take longer to digest, increasing the risk of heartburn. People prone to acid indigestion should avoid lying down after eating. These changes, along with over-the-counter remedies, relieve acid indigestion symptoms for about 25 percent of those who get heartburn, the Cleveland Clinic says.
Stress Effects
Anxiety and stress can worsen acid indigestion, the Mayo Clinic says. Relaxation techniques can help, as can moderate exercise, such as walking or riding a bike. But vigorous exercise may worsen heartburn, the Mayo Clinic warns. Massage, aromatherapy, hypnosis and listening to music can help, as well.
Warning
People who suffer from acid indigestion more than twice a week may have gastroesophageal reflux disease, known as GERD, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. Some people with GERD find successful treatment with stronger prescription medication. The medication can also heal the esophagus, which acid indigestion can damage over time.
Surgery
Chronic GERD increases the risk of inflammation of the esophagus, leading to bleeding or ulcers. In some cases, it can lead to esophageal cancer. People who cannot find relief by taking medication should be tested to see if the esophageal lining has been injured. Surgery can strengthen the muscle valve in the esophagus and prevent persistent acid indigestion. Surgical techniques include fundoplication, which wraps the upper part of the stomach around the muscle valve to strengthen it, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. Other methods include stitching to create folds on the valve or burning the valve with electrodes to produce scar tissue that reinforces the valve.
