If you are searching for natural remedies to relieve your symptoms of GERD, you will come across many people claiming that the root cause of your problems is what causes heartburn. However, the truth of the matter is that there are more factors than just what triggers the symptoms of heartburn. Heartburn, simply put, is the regurgitation of stomach acid back into the esophagus. In some cases, this regurgitation can lead to serious damage to the esophagus, and even result in esophagitis.
Some of the common causes include over-eating, drinking too much alcohol, or bending too far during your daily activities. These medical conditions cause temporary irritation to the esophagus and can set off heartburn. However, prolonged or severe irritation can lead to narrowing of the esophageal sphincter, resulting in the regurgitation of stomach acid back into the esophagus. People suffering from GERD have experienced this sort of scenario countless times. For them, it is all a matter of knowing the difference between what is caused by GERD and what causes heartburn.
Medical research has revealed that some women are genetically prone to developing gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD. This condition occurs when the sphincter at the junction between the stomach and the esophagus is weakened. As a result, stomach acid flows back into the esophagus instead of moving away. If the weakened sphincter continues to remain open and unguarded, the stomach acid will continue to irritate the sensitive lining of the esophagus. It may even result in scarring, inflammation, and ulcerations of the esophagus.
The other main factor that causes heartburn is being overweight. When the excess weight of the body presses on the abdomen, it increases pressure on the diaphragm. This increased pressure causes the diaphragm to tighten, resulting in the burning sensation we experience as heartburn.
You can also avoid heartburn if you know what causes heartburn in the first place. For instance, if you frequently feel heartburn while lying down, try lying on your side instead. Also, it is best to stay away from antacids as they may only provide temporary relief. Instead, see a doctor immediately for your problem.
Antacids come in many different forms such as nasal sprays, lozenges, and tablets. Many people prefer to take these medications when their heartburn symptoms become unbearable. However, for long term use, most experts recommend a change in lifestyle. As with any disease, prevention is better than cure. Eat right, get plenty of rest, avoid long sits on the couch, and exercise regularly to live a longer, healthier life.