Do you want to understand what is causing your digestion problems, and how to cure them? Acid Reflux is a problem which affects thousands of adults, and can be painful and debilitating for those who suffer from it. This happens when the contents of your stomach, or the gases in the stomach, re-enter or 'reflux' into the esophagus. Any sores or lesions there are affected by the acidic stomach contents, and a burning sensation or discomfort then ensues, typically felt behind your breastbone. The gases which are refluxed can also cause pressure which is also uncomfortable, and can be relieved when you burp. The acid can also cause hoarseness or painful swallowing of food, bad breath, a cough, or a feeling that something is 'stuck in your throat'. To clarify Acid Reflux, GERD and Heartburn: GERD, or Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease, is the inflammation or discomfort caused by stomach acid getting into the esophagus from the stomach when the muscle or 'sphincter' between them is weak or too relaxed. Acid Reflux is the unwanted flow of stomach acid into the esophagus. Heartburn is a burning feeling of discomfort in the chest - if you have this more often than twice a week you may be suffering from GERD. So, what can be done about this form of indigestion? Most people are forced into treatments and drugs which only address their symptoms, by masking them or covering them up. Common drugs prescribed include antacids, PPIs and H2 blockers. These work in various ways - by 'coating' the acid in your stomach to prevent the reflux, or by reducing or limiting the amount of acid your stomach produces in the first place. These can usually only be used for a limited time. Other recommended methods for indigestion relief include sleeping on a double pillow, to raise your stomach opening to a higher position, sleeping on your left side, or various diets which are designed to neutralize the stomach acids. Most people find that they cannot maintain these diets for long, and the reflux problems reappear. In extreme cases, surgical treatments which are intended to strengthen the sphincter muscle are performed. Often your lifestyle will be found to contribute to the acid reflux: for example, smoking is known to affect the performance of the sphincter muscle, fatty foods are known to delay the emptying of the stomach, making the symptoms persist, and consuming coffee and alcohol can make your stomach produce more acid. You should be aware that soda pop often contains caffeine. Chocolate and spicy foods are also best avoided if you suffer from Acid Reflux - this can even include some types of pizza. Acidic fruits like tomatoes and oranges can make your indigestion worse, and garlic and onions are often associated with reflux. But relief is in sight! A new solution has proved to be very effective, fast and simple. This does NOT involve drugs, supplements, herbs, fruit, exercise or hard-to-follow diets. It will eliminate your heartburn and free you from pain, discomfort and embarrassment. You can read about this new solution here. |