If you are over the age of 20 or so, chances are that you have experienced the effects of acid reflux, at least at one time in your life. Commonly known as heart burn or acid indigestion, it affects 35 - 45% of the population. There are a few exceptions. So if you are wondering if you have ever experienced acid reflux, or if you will know the symptoms, trust me, you will know.
The symptoms of heart burn are exactly what it sounds like. Except, it isn't really your heart that is burning. But it definitely feels like it is. The best way to describe the symptoms is a burning in the middle of the chest. It can be anywhere between the top of the stomach and the back of your throat. So, basically just above your solar plexus.
The pain may be in one spot, or it can be this entire area. And it can feel like a burning or pressure sensation. Keep in mind, that either of these feelings can also indicate a heart attack, so if you aren't 100% sure it is indigestion, get to a hospital right away. Better safe than sorry.
Acid reflux is caused when acid from the stomach moves up and enters the esophagus. The esophagus is the long tube that transports food from your mouth to your stomach. At the bottom, there are rings which open and close. They open to allow food into the stomach, and later, they open to allow gasses to release.
The problems of heart burn happen when the rings open to allow the gas to escape, but acid escapes as well.
Once it gets into the "tube" it begins to burn. The amount of burn can vary from mild discomfort, to extreme pain. Ask anyone who has experience extreme heartburn, and they will describe pain on par with anything else they have ever felt.
But, in addition to the pain, heart burn also causes damage. And, this damage can turn into cancer in severe cases.
For that reason, it is important to determine the cause of ongoing heart burn and indigestion. There are a number of possible reasons, and once you have determined your particular issue, it can be dealt with.
For some people, acid reflux is triggered by food. Spicy or greasy foods are the most common culprits. For food related problems, depending on the severity, antacids can help. If the problem isn't too bad. But it's best not to rely on these for too long.
Another option of course is to avoid the food, which is not always that easy.
Lifestyle can also contribute to chronic acid reflux. Stress, over exertion and even the time of day you eat can all have and effect.
But, there are many cases where heart burn is caused by a medical condition. And in these cases, medical intervention will be necessary.
There are prescription drugs, which you take on a daily basis. Or, in extreme cases, surgery may be necessary.
The important thing to remember is you need to get to the root of the problem. It needs to be determined if the cause of your acid reflux is external like food or lifestyle. Or, if it is internal like gastric reflux disease or other problems.
Once you know the cause, you can begin to reduce and eliminate your symptoms. If you have heart burn that is severe, or on going, you need to see your doctor. They can prescribe over the counter or prescription medication to take care of the problems.
Chronic Acid reflux is more than just extremely painful. It can cause damage which can not be repaired. Or even cancer.
Fortunately, you don't have to live with the problems of persistent acid reflux. With changes in lifestyle and / or medications, they can be corrected.
Dorota from Fruits 4 Life Network writes about health topics from acid reflux to health food. She is especially passionate about Acai Berry Juice after seeing its effects in her own life.
She has published the free report " Why Acai " which is available on her site.
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