The stomach contains glands that produce hydrochloric acid. This makes stomach juices acidic so that they can break down foods for digestion. When the stomach produces too much acid, an acid imbalance can occur. Several medical conditions caused by a stomach acid imbalance can result in uncomfortable digestive symptoms. Discuss these symptoms with a doctor so the underlying cause can be treated.
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a condition characterized by persistent gastroesophageal reflux. According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, gastroesophageal reflux must occur more than twice a week before it is considered GERD. This condition is caused by a problem with the lower esophageal sphincter, which is supposed to keep stomach acid from entering the esophagus. The sphincter may not close properly or it may open spontaneously and stay open for a long period of time. GERD can be signaled by heartburn that causes burning pain in the middle of the abdomen, middle of the chest and behind the breast bone. Other symptoms include dry cough and trouble swallowing. This condition can be treated with medications that neutralize acids or decrease the production of stomach acid. If symptoms persist, surgery may be done to strengthen the lower esophageal sphincter.
Heartburn
Heartburn is a burning pain in the lower chest that can be accompanied by a bitter or sour taste in the mouth. It may occur while lying down or immediately after a meal. When eating, the food enters the stomach via an opening between the stomach and esophagus. Once the food passes through, this opening should close. If it does not close properly, stomach acid enters the esophagus through the opening. Stomach acid then irritates the esophagus and causes heartburn. Heartburn can be prevented with lifestyle changes such as losing weight, eating low-fat meals that are high in protein, avoiding tight clothes, avoiding trigger foods and quitting smoking. Antacids can also be used to neutralize the acid and prevent irritation of the esophagus.
Indigestion
Indigestion, also known as functional dyspepsia, is a condition that can involve burning or pain in the abdomen, feeling of fullness while eating and an uncomfortable feeling of fullness after eating. Proton pump inhibitors and H-2 blockers, which are drugs used to reduce the production of stomach acid, may be used to correct a stomach acid imbalance and improve the symptoms of indigestion. Indigestion can also be treated with lifestyle changes such as abstaining from coffee and alcohol, avoiding carbonated drinks, getting enough sleep, reducing stress, eating smaller meals and eating low-fat meals at a slower pace.
Gastric Ulcers
Gastric ulcers form when stomach acid erodes the lining of the stomach. This can occur if there is too much acid produced by the gastric glands that are located in the stomach's lining. Someone with a gastric ulcer may experience indigestion, nausea, heartburn, weight loss, loss of appetite and gastrointestinal bleeding. This condition is treated with prescription medications that protect the stomach lining and reduce the production of acid by the gastric glands. If a gastric ulcer is complicated, surgery may be done to repair the stomach lining.
