1. Fire in the Belly
Acid reflux occurs when food backs up from the stomach and the valve at the bottom of the esophagus isn't working properly, allowing the acid from the food to back up and cause a burning sensation. Sometimes, you can taste the bile in the back of your throat. Everyone gets a taste of acid reflux once in a while because of the food choices you make. Your stomach is not equipped to handle large amounts of fried food for instance and will rebel. It's only when the burning is persistent and daily that you have to take notice.
2. Hearts Afire
Other diseases also share the symptoms of heartburn and are sometimes overlooked when a person has regular acid reflux. The acid that causes heartburn really does not affect the heart at all. The name is a misnomer. The burning sensation created when acid backs up from the stomach into the esophagus after a big meal or after eating too many fired or fatty foods begins in the chest area, typically associated with the heart.
3. The Acid Test
Everyone has a different tolerance for spicy and foods high in alkaline. The best test of what you can eat without suffering from heartburn is to listen to your own body. If every time you eat a plate of fried onion rings, then you get a severe case of heartburn, don't eat onion rings anymore. If the spice in a Thai meal makes you sweat and feel a burning sensation in your chest, it may be too hot for your esophagus to handle. However, if you can't stay away from these foods, at least carry medication that helps prevent heartburn or keep some tablets to relieve the pain when it appears.
4. Fire in the Hole
Prolonged and persistent heartburn and acid reflux can cause permanent damage to the esophagus, including cancer of the larynx. While for the most part, acid reflux is more of a painful inconvenience, no good can come of that undigested acid rising up where it doesn't belong. Patients can find holes formed in the throat and esophagus from the acid; these holes could leave you with a permanent case of acid reflux, requiring extreme lifestyle changes and severe dietary restrictions.
5. Pop, pop, Fizzle
A number of over the counter medications prove very effective for treating acid reflux. Pepcid AC and antacids such as Tums and Mylanta help many sufferers endure an occasional bout of heartburn. A doctor can prescribe stronger, longer lasting drugs. Some folks find that certain natural remedies work for them. Eating foods and herbs like almonds, bananas, aloe vera, chamomile and licorice can help some sufferers of acid reflux.
