Heartburn
Acid reflux can produce symptoms of heartburn when digestive juices or acids rise up from recently eaten food. The lower esophageal sphincter opens for a period of time. Sometimes the food or fluid can be tasted during an episode. A burning sensation accompanies or follows. This brings about heartburn or acid indigestion. It is a common occurrence but happens more often in people with acid reflux. It can usually be treated by changing the diet when finding out what foods or drinks are causing the problem, or by using antacids. Medical attention may be necessary when it occurs more than twice a week, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can lead to serious health problems when persistent acid reflux does not go away with simple changes.
Causes and Remedies
It takes some homework on your own to find out what is causing the reflux symptoms. Smoking or obesity increases the risk for acid reflux. Drinking alcohol or caffeine may increase symptoms. Other common foods responsible for acid reflux include chocolate, citrus fruits, fatty and fried foods, garlic, onions, mints, spicy foods or tomato-based items, such as spaghetti sauce, salsa, chili and pizza. A hiatal hernia may be an underlying problem. A person with occasional acid reflux can usually get rid of the disorder by eliminating these foods or others that may be causing the problem. You are the best person to determine what in your diet is causing your acid reflux. If you are overweight, use exercise or diet to reduce acid reflux symptoms. Don't lie down after a meal; wait about three hours. Keep your head raised with extra pillows or raise the head of your bed 6 to 8 inches if acid reflux bothers you during sleep.
Counteracting
Antacids neutralize stomach acid to prevent heartburn and acid-related symptoms. Some antacid tablets treat heartburn or acid reflux quickly, says the Mayo Clinic. They include Tums, Rolaids, Mylanta and Maalox. Products such as Tagamet HB, Pepcid AC and Zantac 75 treat the problem for a period of hours when taken once or twice a day. Proton pump inhibitors that act on stomach cells to reduce the production of acid are also available over the counter. However, if you always have to use antacid products and you have eliminated the items you think may be the cause, a visit to the doctor can help. The doctor can either advise you on what medications may work for you or refer you to a specialist who deals with stomach and intestinal disorders.
