Ad Code

Ticker

6/recent/ticker-posts

Quick Solutions to Alleviate Symptoms of Acidity, Nausea, and Heartburn

Major reasons that increase your stomach acidity

Acidity in the stomach is a common health problem which is usually caused by hormonal changes in the gastrointestinal system, wrong eating habits, increased fibrogenesis or changes in diet and lifestyle.


Fast food and fried foods:

Consuming fast food and fried foods, spicy food and excessive amounts of coffee or tea can increase the acidity of the stomach.


Overeating or being hungry:

Eating too much or being hungry can also cause acidity.


Tobacco and alcohol consumption:

Consumption of tobacco and alcohol also increases the acidity of the stomach.


high blood pressure:

When blood pressure is high, it can increase acidity in the stomach.


Pregnant women:

Hormonal changes occur during pregnancy which affect the digestive system. Due to which women experience acidity in the stomach during pregnancy.


To prevent stomach acidity, you should take the following steps:

  • Adopt healthy eating habits.
  • Drink more water.
  • Reduce consumption of fried foods, spicy foods, tobacco and alcohol.
  • Do not do any heavy physical activity immediately after meals.
  • If acidity problem persists, seek expert advice


What is Acidity or acid reflux or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)

Acidity, also called acid reflux or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), is a medical condition where the stomach acid flows back up into the esophagus. Normally, a ring of muscle at the bottom of the esophagus, called the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), prevents the stomach acid from moving up into the esophagus. Acidity is a medical condition that occurs when the stomach produces excessive amounts of acid, leading to discomfort and sometimes pain. It's worth noting that while antacids can provide temporary relief from the symptoms of acidity, they do not address the underlying cause of the condition. In cases of chronic acidity, a doctor may recommend additional medication or lifestyle changes. 

It can cause a variety of symptoms such as heartburn, chest pain, regurgitation, difficulty swallowing, and nausea. Acidity can be caused by a variety of factors such as obesity, smoking, pregnancy, certain foods, and medications. If you experience symptoms of acidity seek medical attention 



Natural remedies for acidity and heartburn


Natural remedies for acidity and heartburn are non-pharmaceutical methods that can help alleviate the symptoms of acidity and heartburn without the use of medication. While natural remedies can provide relief from acidity and heartburn symptoms, it is important to consult a doctor before trying any new remedies or making any significant dietary changes.

Examples:

  • Ginger: Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce the inflammation in the esophagus and stomach that causes acidity and heartburn. It can be consumed in various forms such as ginger tea, ginger chews or added to meals.
  • Apple cider vinegar:  is believed to help neutralize stomach acid and improve digestion. However, it should be used with caution as excessive use can lead to erosion of tooth enamel and irritation to the throat.
  • Aloe vera juice: It has anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe the digestive tract and alleviate symptoms of acidity and heartburn.
  • Bananas: It contains natural antacids that can help neutralize stomach acid and reduce the symptoms of acidity and heartburn.
  • Chamomile tea: has a calming effect on the digestive system and can help reduce inflammation in the stomach and esophagus.
  • Sleep and stress management: Lack of sleep and chronic stress can exacerbate symptoms of acidity and heartburn. Ensuring adequate sleep and finding stress management techniques such as meditation or yoga can help reduce these symptoms.



Foods to avoid with acid reflux and acidity


Acid reflux occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) fails to close properly, allowing stomach acid to flow back up into the esophagus. Certain foods and beverages can trigger or worsen acid reflux symptoms. 

It's important to note that different people may have different trigger foods, so it's essential to pay attention to your body's reaction to different foods and beverages and avoid those that cause acid.it's essential to seek medical advice for proper treatment and management.

 Some foods to avoid if you have  acidity:

  • Spicy foods: It can irritate the lining of the esophagus and trigger acid reflux symptoms. These include hot peppers, chili powder, and hot sauce.
  • Fatty and fried foods: Take longer to digest, which can increase the likelihood of acid reflux symptoms. These include fast foods, fried foods, and high-fat cuts of meat.
  • Citrus fruits and juices: can irritate the esophagus and trigger acid reflux symptoms. These include oranges, grapefruit, lemons, limes, and their juices.
  • Tomato-based foods: are highly acidic and can trigger acid reflux symptoms. This includes tomato sauce, ketchup, and salsa.
  • Carbonated drinks: Carbonated drinks can increase the pressure in the stomach, which can cause acid to reflux into the esophagus. This includes soda, sparkling water, and beer.
  • Chocolate:It  contains a compound called theobromine, which can cause the LES to relax and allow acid to flow back up into the esophagus.
  • Peppermint and spearmint: peppermint tea, mints, and gum can relax the LES and increase the likelihood of acid reflux symptoms. 
  • Alcohol: Alcohol can relax the LES and increase the likelihood of acid reflux symptoms. This includes wine, beer.




Acidity diet plan for GERD patients


GERD (Gastroesophageal reflux disease) is a chronic condition in which acid from the stomach flows back up into the esophagus, causing symptoms like heartburn, regurgitation, and difficulty swallowing. A diet plan for GERD patients aims to reduce the symptoms of acid reflux by avoiding foods that trigger acid production 

Avoid trigger foods: Avoiding spicy, fatty, and fried foods, caffeine, chocolate, citrus fruits and tea, and alcohol should be avoided. Eat smaller, more frequent meals: Eating smaller, more frequent meals can help reduce the pressure on the LES and prevent acid reflux symptoms.

  • Include fiber-rich foods: Foods rich in fiber can help reduce symptoms of GERD by improving digestion and reducing constipation. Fiber-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and beans should be included in the diet.
  • Choose lean proteins: Lean proteins like chicken, fish, and turkey can be included in the diet as they are low in fat and easy to digest.
  • Avoid eating before bedtime: Eating before bedtime can increase the likelihood of acid reflux symptoms. It's recommended to avoid eating at least 2-3 hours before bedtime.
  • Drink plenty of water: Drinking water can help neutralize stomach acid and prevent acid reflux symptoms. It's recommended to drink at least 8-10 glasses of water a day.
  • Avoid tight-fitting clothes: Wearing tight-fitting clothes can increase the pressure on the LES and increase the likelihood of acid reflux symptoms.



 Acidity and stress management techniques


Managing stress is an important part of managing acidity symptoms. Here are some stress management techniques that can help reduce the likelihood of acid reflux symptoms:

  • Exercise: Regular exercise can help reduce stress levels and improve digestion, which can help reduce the symptoms of acid reflux. Exercise can also help maintain a healthy weight, which is important in managing GERD.
  • Yoga and meditation: Yoga and meditation can help reduce stress levels and improve relaxation, which can help reduce the likelihood of acid reflux symptoms.
  • Deep breathing: Deep breathing exercises can help reduce stress levels and promote relaxation, which can help reduce the likelihood of acid reflux symptoms.
  • Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT): CBT can help change negative thought patterns and behaviors that can contribute to stress, which can help reduce the likelihood of acid reflux symptoms.
  • Time management: Managing time effectively can help reduce stress levels and prevent situations that may trigger acid reflux symptoms.
  • Relaxation techniques: Relaxation techniques like progressive muscle relaxation, visualization, and aromatherapy can help reduce stress levels and promote relaxation, which can help reduce the likelihood of acid reflux symptoms.
  • Social support: Having a strong support system can help reduce stress levels and provide emotional support, which can help reduce the likelihood of acid reflux symptoms.




Acidity symptoms and causes in children


Acidity or gastroesophageal reflux disease  can occur in children as well as adults. Here are some common symptoms and causes of acidity in children:

Symptoms:

  • Frequent vomiting or spitting up
  • Refusing to eat or difficulty eating
  • Irritability during or after feedings
  • Coughing or wheezing
  • Recurrent pneumonia or respiratory infections
  • Blood in vomit or stool

Causes:

  • Immature digestive system: Infants and young children have immature digestive systems that may not be fully developed, leading to reflux of stomach acid into the esophagus.
  • Hiatal hernia: A hiatal hernia occurs when the upper part of the stomach moves up into the chest through the diaphragm. This can cause acid reflux symptoms in children.
  • Food allergies or sensitivities: Certain foods or allergens can trigger acid reflux symptoms in children. Common culprits include dairy products, soy products, wheat, and peanuts.
  • Obesity: Obesity can increase the likelihood of acid reflux symptoms in children.
  • Neurological disorders: Neurological disorders like cerebral palsy or Down syndrome can increase the likelihood of acid reflux symptoms in children.
  • Medications: Certain medications like antibiotics or painkillers can increase the likelihood of acid reflux symptoms in children.




How to treat chronic acidity naturally


Chronic acidity or acid reflux is a condition where stomach acid flows back up into the esophagus, causing discomfort and pain. While medication may be necessary in some cases, there are also natural remedies that can help alleviate symptoms. Here are some ways to treat chronic acidity naturally:

  • Lifestyle changes: Certain lifestyle changes can help reduce symptoms of chronic acidity. These include losing weight, avoiding tight-fitting clothing, avoiding food triggers, and not lying down for at least three hours after eating.
  • Dietary changes: Certain foods can trigger acid reflux symptoms. Foods to avoid include caffeine, alcohol, spicy and fatty foods, chocolate, citrus fruits, and tomatoes. Foods that can help alleviate symptoms include ginger, oatmeal, non-citrus fruits, and vegetables.
  • Herbal remedies: Certain herbs can help alleviate symptoms of acid reflux. These include slippery elm, licorice root, and chamomile tea.
  • Probiotics: Probiotics can help promote a healthy digestive system and reduce symptoms of acid reflux.
  • Apple cider vinegar: Although acidic in nature, apple cider vinegar can help balance the pH levels in the stomach and reduce symptoms of acid reflux. Mix one tablespoon of apple cider vinegar with a glass of water and drink before meals.
  • Aloe vera: Aloe vera juice can help soothe the lining of the esophagus and reduce symptoms of acid reflux.
  • Chewing gum: Chewing gum can help promote saliva production, which can help neutralize stomach acid and reduce symptoms of acid reflux.


Antacids are a type of medication that can provide immediate relief from symptoms of acidity by neutralizing stomach acid.

Medicine for instant relief from acidity

Here are some of the best antacid brands for immediate acidity relief:

  • Tums: Tums is a popular antacid brand that contains calcium carbonate. It works quickly to neutralize stomach acid and provide relief from heartburn and indigestion.
  • Rolaids: Rolaids is another popular antacid brand that contains both calcium carbonate and magnesium hydroxide. It can provide fast and effective relief from symptoms of acidity.
  • Mylanta: Mylanta is an antacid brand that contains aluminum hydroxide, magnesium hydroxide, and simethicone. It can provide fast relief from heartburn, indigestion, and gas.
  • Pepto-Bismol: Pepto-Bismol is an antacid brand that contains bismuth subsalicylate. It can provide relief from heartburn, indigestion, and upset stomach.
  • Alka-Seltzer: Alka-Seltzer is an antacid brand that contains sodium bicarbonate. It works quickly to neutralize stomach acid and provide relief from heartburn and indigestion.

It's important to note that while antacids can provide immediate relief from symptoms of acidity, they are not a long-term solution for chronic acidity. If you experience chronic acidity, it's important to seek medical attention from a doctor or pharmacist to determine the underlying cause and find an appropriate treatment plan.

List of drugs used in the treatment of acidity, stomach ulcers, and stomach ache

  • Cimetidine,
  • Ranitidine,
  • Famotidine,
  • Roxatidine Acetate Hydrochloride,
  • Omeprazole,
  • Omeprazole with Domperidone,
  • Lansoprazole,
  • Pantoprazole,
  • Esomeprazole,
  • Esomeprazole with Domperidone,
  • Rabeprazole sodium,
  • Rabeprazole with Domperidone,
  • Dexrabeprazole,,
  • Sucralfate,
  • Misoprostol,
  • Lafutidine,
  • Tripotassium Dicitratobismuthate.


What can I take for heartburn while pregnant?


There is no precaution for the use of antacids during pregnancy. Therefore it can be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. During pregnancy, heartburn is usually mild but may be severe in some cases. Some home remedies during the morning that provide relief from heartburn

  • Keep your head high on the bed
  • Avoid acidity-enhancing foods
  • Take food frequently but in small quantities
  • Avoid lying down after eating
  • Drink lots of water. 



Always consult your doctor/pharmacist before taking any medicine.

Post a Comment

0 Comments

Ad Code