Ingesting food signals the body to release the hormone gastrin, which stimulates the parietal cells in the stomach to produce hydrochloric acid, the main component of gastric juice. As the liquid contents move from the stomach to the small intestine, the body signals to slow acid production. Although necessary for digestion, too much stomach acid can cause symptoms associated with gastric ulcers, gastritis and gastroesophageal reflux disease, as described by Colorado State University.
Gastric Ulcer
A peptic ulcer describes a small, round open sore that affects the lining of the digestive tract including the esophagus, stomach and intestines. Irritation of the lining of the stomach caused by stomach acid causes a gastric ulcer. Because the lining of the stomach contains a mucus layer that protects the sensitive tissues from stomach acid, high stomach acid alone does not usually lead to the formation of an ulcer. The presence of a bacterium known as Helicobacter pylori contributes to approximately one half of all peptic ulcers worldwide, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. The bacteria damages the mucus coating thereby allowing the stomach acid to penetrate into the lining of the stomach causing an ulcer. Symptoms of an ulcer include a dull, burning pain that often occurs in an empty stomach, weight loss, poor appetite and nausea.
Gastritis
Gastritis describes a condition characterized by inflammation of the lining of the stomach. Although the cells in the lining of the stomach usually resist the damaging effects of stomach acid, when the mucus membrane that normally protects the lining becomes damaged, acid irritates the lining resulting in inflammation. Factors that contribute to the damage to the mucus membrane include bacterial infection, the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory pain relievers, excessive alcohol use and bile reflux disease, according to MayoClinic.com. Gastritis causes a gnawing or burning pain in the upper abdomen, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, bloating, a feeling of fullness and weight loss. A high content of stomach acid increases the likelihood of developing gastritis and related symptoms.
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease
Gastroesophageal reflux disease, classified as a peptic acid disorder, occurs when the ring of muscle separating the esophagus and stomach, known as the lower esophageal sphincter, fails to open and close properly. The malfunctioning sphincter allows stomach acid to back flow into the esophagus, damaging the lining of the esophagus and causing symptoms. Those with high stomach acid may experience more severe reflux causing more frequent and more severe symptoms. Symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease include burning pain in the chest, known as heartburn, a dry cough, asthma-like symptoms and trouble swallowing, as detailed by the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse.
