Anyone who has dealt with acid reflux related issues (also commonly known as heartburn) knows just how irritating, disruptive, and outright debilitating it can be.
Acid reflux can be a chronic, recurring issue or appear in isolated incidents due to factors like diet and lifestyle. By understanding these root causes, and how best to prevent and relieve symptoms when they surface, you can help keep that digestive system on track and keep acid reflux under control.
It’s important to note that everyone has unique health needs and medical backgrounds that should be considered before taking any steps or new medication. If you have specific questions about how best to handle acid reflux, then contact Community Pharmacy today for immediate feedback.
Roots Causes of Acid Reflux
The root cause of acid reflux is stomach acid and bile building and settling above the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) valve in the chest and throat area. These corrosive liquids then cause an uncomfortable burning sensation, and if left unchecked, can do serious damage to the affected areas.
Some common contributing factors that cause acid reflux are:
- Diet
- Consuming acidic and spicy food along with carbonated beverages, which irritate or increase internal stomach pressure
- Medication
- Common pain relief and blood pressure medication can overly relax the LES valve and make acid reflux more likely
- Lifestyle
- Those with weight-related or stress issues can be more vulnerable to acid reflux
The causes of acid reflux are simple enough, and with those in mind, it then becomes a question of how best to put that knowledge into practice for prevention and relief.
Simple Acid Reflux Prevention Tips
The most immediately applicable acid reflux prevention advice is to become especially mindful of food and beverage consumption, both in terms of content and timing.
Avoiding food and beverages with irritants helps reduce the chance of inflammation. As does keeping portion sizes small, so the body can steadily digest it rather than become overfull. This keeps stomach acid and bile far away from the esophagus.
Experts agree that avoiding eating about two hours before bed can also help, as well as not lying down after a large meal. By keeping the body upright, you give your digestive tract a much better chance of processing food without issue.
How to Ease Acid Reflux Symptoms
When acid reflux symptoms appear, it’s important to take immediate steps to help ease symptoms, which usually only last a few hours at a time. If they persist longer than that, consult a medical professional.
For quick relief from acid reflux, drinking water and staying upright can help prevent stomach acid building upwards within the stomach. A short, non-strenuous walk after a meal is also a time-honored tradition to help your stomach get back on track and activate the muscles surrounding the abdomen to aid with digestion.
Additional medical support is available through antacids like TUMS or Rolaids, which are over-the-counter medications designed to relieve acid reflux and general indigestion. Having these on hand to help combat acid reflux can bring near instant relief, and when coupled with other tips, are a safe, surefire way to handle indigestion.
If you have questions about what type of antacid might be right for you, or other questions about
digestive issues and support, contact Community Pharmacy now for a recommendation.
Dial in Your Digestion
Few things affect our quality of life more immediately than a functioning digestive system, which when working well, can help fuel us along each day.
By becoming aware of acid reflux causes and solutions, you can keep your body and home stocked with the tools and knowledge necessary to overcome any health obstacle that might come your way.
