Acid reflux is suffered by millions of people worldwide. Most people know it as the condition that's caused by eating spicy foods. However, acid reflux can be caused by several things. An episode of acid reflux can be different for each person. Some people experience a burning in their chest, while others have flatulence and belch up acid. People often mistake acid reflux symptoms for a heart attack and rush to the nearest emergency room. Knowing what causes this condition and its signs, can help you avoid going to the ER unnecessarily.
What is Acid Reflux?
Gastroesophageal reflux, or acid reflux, occurs when acid from the stomach backs up into the esophagus. This causes what is commonly known as heartburn and indigestion. The tube that leads from the throat to the stomach is called the esophagus. Swallowed food or drink travels down the esophagus, past the band of muscles called the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). The LES relaxes to let food and water pass through to the stomach. Once there, the lower esophageal sphincter closes, preventing food and acid from refluxing. If the LES relaxes prematurely, acid reflux occurs.
What Causes Flatulence?
Flatulence is caused by excess air (gas) in the digestive tract. Any irritations in the stomach or digestive system can result in flatulence. Flatulence is a major symptom of acid reflux, but it is also caused by swallowing too much air while eating, talking while eating and eating foods that produce gas.
Other Causes
Acid reflux with flatulence is caused by wearing clothes that are too tight, lying down after eating, eating acidic or spicy foods and the presence of a hiatal hernia. Wearing tight clothing puts pressure on the stomach, causing digestion to slow down. It can also cause the contents of the stomach to back up into the esophagus.
Symptoms of Acid Reflux
Symptoms of acid reflux are a burning sensation in the chest, stomach pain, flatulence or indigestion and belching up acid or undigested food.
Treatments
Acid reflux can be treated by making lifestyle changes such as losing weight, avoiding spicy or acidic foods, sitting up after eating, eating no later than 2 to 3 hours before sleeping and wearing loose-fitting clothing. Some people also experience relief by eating smaller portions of food throughout the day and cutting out caffeinated beverages. Over-the-counter antacids, which work to reduce acid production, provide some relief to people experiencing infrequent acid reflux or mild acid reflux. Antacids are not recommended for people with chronic acid reflux, as they contain ingredients that could lead to serious complications if used long term.
Warning
People who experience flatulence, should see a physician. In addition to flatulence being a sign of acid reflux, it is also a sign of food allergies and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). People who experience acid reflux two or more times a week should also see a physician, because it may be a sign of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Doctors may prescribe medications such as Zantac, Tagamet or Pepcid to reduce indigestion. These medicines work in the same way as antacids, by minimizing stomach acid. However, they also are a lot stronger and people taking them may experience headaches, nausea and vomiting, constipation, diarrhea or unusual bleeding or bruising.
