5 Facts about Acid Reflux

Acid reflux is a disease that afflicts many people each and every day. They live with the discomfort and constant round of medications. That burning, heavy sensation in the throat and chest can make anyone feel less than their best. Many people are unclear as to why acid reflux is afflicting them or even if they have acid reflux. Many patients suffer for years with acid reflux, thinking they only have indigestion or heart burn. In this article we will discuss some of the more common questions dealing with acid reflux.

What is acid reflux?

The first thing you should know is that everyone has acid reflux. It is a natural process of the body. The stomach is filled with liquid that aids in digestion. During the process of digestion small amounts of this liquid is pushed back up into the esophagus. The liquid contain acid, Pepsin and a small amount of bile.

In many people the reflux does not harm them. But if there is any damage to the esophageal tissue the acid can begin eroding the lining further thus leading to discomfort and pain. Many things affect how much acid is produced by the stomach. Other factors such as smoking, weight and saliva production can have a tremendous affect on the reflux of liquids.

Can anyone, regardless of age, have acid reflux?

Acid reflux is not picky about the age, ethnicity or religious viewpoint. It can strike anyone at any age. There are factors that can increase your likelihood of developing acid reflux. It is important that if you are suffering from repeat attacks of heartburn or indigestion to seek out the advice of your physician.

How is it treated in adults?

The first step in treatment is sleeping position. Gravity can be your friend or your foe. By sleeping at an incline, the acid can flow back down the esophageal tube. The next step is to change the size of your meal. The larger your stomach distends to make room for food, the less room there is for the digestive fluids. Eat smaller portions and this will help alleviate the symptoms. Also look at your diet. Some foods are known to promote reflux. You should avoid ingesting peppermint, chocolate, alcohol and caffeine.

If you have followed these recommendations and are still having acid reflux then the doctor may have you take medicine specifically designed for treating acid reflux. One thing you should remember is this: there is no cure for acid reflux and you will always have to battle flare-ups. In the case of reflux in which nothing seems to be working, the doctor may have to operate.

How is it treated in infants and children?

The treatment plan for adults is basically the same one that doctors prescribe for infants and children. Since it is dangerous for infants to sleep on pillows, there are special wedges designed to go under the mattress to allow the infant and child to sleep elevated. There is also foam wedges designed to go inside the crib to keep the child in one position. These are safe to use and the pediatrician will show you how to use them correctly.

Does tight clothing really make acid reflux worse?

Just as being overweight puts pressure on the stomach, so too does really tight clothing. How tight would it have to be? It would have to be pretty confining. This is probably not much of a problem for most men as they normally do not wear extremely constrictive clothing around their midsection. Women, on the other hand, can find themselves a victim of their own fashion. Corset tops, while being fashionable, can definitely make acid reflux worse. Jeans normally sit much lower than the stomach so these are not a problem unless they are causing fat around the waist to push upwards. The best advice is to wear comfortable clothing until you get your acid reflux controlled.

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