Acid Reflux Mechanics
Everytime you turn on the television these days, there is a
downpour of over-the-counter and prescription medications for
the relief and prevention of acid reflux. As with medications
for any ailment, there are theories regarding the disease and
how well the medications work.
>From a medical point of view, acid reflux is a condition caused
by acidic contents from the stomach moving upward into the
esophagus, which results in a burning sensation. When the valve
found at the lower end of the esophagus is dysfunctional, it
allows the acidic content of the stomach to be regurgitated,
where it would block this behavior when functional.
Another belief is that acid reflux is caused by an individual's
eating habits. As the civilized world eats more and more junk
and processed foods, the majority of the food ends up in the
stomach undigested. This undigested material turns into acidic
waste, which causes stomach spasms. These spasms create stomach
gas which pops open the valve between the stomach and esophagus,
allowing the acidic content to return to the esophagus.
Others believe that acid reflux is related to aging. As we age,
the activity of the stomach is reduced. This also reduces the
ability to produce hydrochloric acid. The result is the stomach
turning into a breeding ground for infection which can cause
stomach pain and acid waste irritation.
Whatever the cause behind acid reflux, it is often a chronic
disease. Therefore, most medications for the disease merely
relieve the burning and other symptoms and cannot actually cure
the condition. As medications relieve the symptoms caused by
acid reflux, they can cause several undesirable side effects due
to the fact that they cut down the acid production in the
stomach, leading to a reduction in ability to digest food. These
medications can make you more susceptible to diseases and
microbes transmitted through food. This may increase your risk
for food poisoning and a host of other problems.
Before you choose a medication or a natural method to rid
yourself of the burning that accompanies acid reflux, you should
first make a thorough assessment of the food you eat and your
lifestyle. Studies show that foods such as citrus, chocolate,
garlic, onions, spicy, fried and fatty foods all contribute to
and can aggravate acid reflux. Limiting your intake or avoiding
such foods as much as possible is a good first line of defense
against future acid reflux bouts.
Lifestyle modification, such as losing weight, cutting back on
alcohol and caffeine, sleeping with your head raised six to
eight inches, and waiting three hours after eating before going
to bed can assist in reducing the number of acid reflux episodes
you may have.
Though you should discuss your options with your physician,
something as simple as lifestyle improvements and dietary
changes can help to keep you from adding an acid blocker or acid
reflux medication to your daily diet.