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Heartburn and Acid Reflux Help

Is Heartburn Different From Acid Reflux?

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When you get that burning sensation in your esophagus, do you know what is causing it? You need to know exactly what your condition is before you can treat it, but acid reflux and heartburn have many of the same symptoms. The important differences lie in how often the discomfort occurs.

GERD symptoms stomach issues

The technical cause for heartburn is when stomach acid migrates up from the stomach, and the most common reasons that people experience it include eating too much, tight clothing and advancing pregnancy.

All of these circumstances constrict the stomach, resulting in some stomach acid rising into the esophagus and the uncomfortable, burning sensation that follows.

The normal function of the esophagus is to carry food that has been chewed and swallowed to the stomach. Food enters the stomach by passing through an esophageal sphincter muscle at the lower end of the esophagus, and the muscle should then close so the food stays in the stomach.

If this lower esophageal sphincter muscle does not function properly, too much pressure on the stomach can force acid back through the valve. This defective valve is why some people experience heartburn more more frequently than others. Certain studies found a connection between stress and heartburn or acid reflux.

The technical term for acid reflux is gastrointestinal reflux disease, and is more commonly referred to as GERD. This condition is more serious than the occasional heartburn some people have since it occurs on a more regular basis, and at least once or twice in a week. Also, over-the-counter medication such as antacids are not effective in relieving the discomfort.

Frequent bouts of GERD can damage the esophageal lining if the condition is not treated, and this can lead to ulcers, bleeding, scar tissue and even esophageal cancer. The most obvious difference between heartburn and GERD is how often the burning sensation occurs.

If someone is suffering from GERD, it is essential that they begin proper treatment promptly. A healthcare provider should be consulted if heartburn is a problem more than two times a week on average.

Proper treatment of GERD includes prescription medications and lifestyle modifications. Substantial weight loss which can be accomplished through diet changes to include foods that are less rich and lower in fat.

Smokers should also quit smoking, and if GERD continues to be a problem, surgery is sometimes necessary to strengthen the lower esophageal sphincter muscle.

Heartburn Home Remedies For Quick Relief

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Heartburn is an all too common problem that affects millions of people on a daily basis. If you frequently experience an uncomfortable burning sensation after you eat or if you find yourself with an upset stomach, you may be suffering from heartburn.

apple and apple cider vinegar bottles filled

Before you visit the doctor, however, try some easy heartburn home remedies to get some relief. They may solve your problem without requiring the use of prescription medications.

The easiest way to deal with heartburn is by making some simple lifestyle changes. Keep track of what you eat and when you experience heartburn. This information can help you figure out which foods are most likely to trigger an attack. Once you determine the connection, you can avoid these foods, or at least minimize the amount of them that you eat. Food recipes are the easiest way to prevent heartburn… try these and see what you think:           Here —> Heartburn Home Remedies 

Certain foods are more frequently associated with heartburn, such as mint, chocolate, tomatoes, and onions. However, triggers can vary from person to person. If you discover that a certain food frequently causes problems for you, try eliminating it from your diet for a week or so. This may help you get rid of heartburn with ease.

Avoid lying down shortly after you eat and do not eat before you go to bed. When you lie down, it is easier for the stomach acid to come back up into your esophagus.

By remaining upright, you can enlist the aid of gravity to keep the contents of your stomach where they belong. Even if you have an upset stomach, just sit down instead of lying down.

Some people put blocks under the head of the bed so it elevates the bed, providing them relief when they experience heartburn at night.

Certain herbal remedies can help you deal with an attack of indigestion. For example, ginger root has been used as a treatment for heartburn for thousands of years. Grate some ginger and add it to some boiling water to make tea. Let it steep for 10 to 15 minutes and then drink it. It is also an effective remedy for nausea and motion sickness.

Other herbal teas can also be of assistance, including anise and fennel seed. Steep 1 to 2 teaspoons in boiling water and then strain out the seeds before drinking. Try having a cup before you eat as a preventative measure.

Antacids can help to neutralize your stomach acid but only use short-term. Various brands are available over the counter at your pharmacy. Chew a tablet or two after your meal to help stave off indigestion. Baking soda mixed with water can also be helpful.

Apple cider vinegar helps relieve it instantly. This is because when you get heartburn, it’s usually from a lack of acid in your stomach. Many people think they have too much but the lack of acid is what causes most heartburn.

Use the raw, organic apple cider vinegar with mother on a daily basis to help digestion. Just be sure to mix with water so the acid doesn’t destroy the enamel on your teeth.

Try not to eat too much at a meal. The fuller that your stomach is, the more likely you will be to experience trouble. Eat slowly and chew your food thoroughly. If you gulp down your food, you can easily overeat and give yourself indigestion.

Knowing the best heartburn home remedies will help you get your condition under control. The next time that your stomach is upset, give some of these methods a try. You may be pleasantly surprised at how useful they can be.