Heartburn and Acid Reflux Disease

7 Tips for Dealing with Heartburn and Acid Reflux Disease

by Train Crossroad on 16/07/10 at 8:51 pm

7 Tips for Dealing with Heartburn and Acid Reflux Disease - If you suffer from chronic heartburn, and you’re not pregnant, and there are no other obvious causes, like irritable bowel syndrome, then there’s a good chance you’re suffering from acid reflux disease, or Gastroesophogeal Reflux Disease, or GERD, it is the most common cause of heartburn. Acid reflux disease is caused by changes or damages to the barriers between the esophagus, and the stomach, which allow stomach acid to push up, causing pain and discomfort.

While these changes may be temporary or permanent, acid reflux disease is never fun, and it’s always a good idea to find ways to minimize the pain and discomfort. Here are our top seven tips to help you cope:

1. While diet may not have a massive impact on treating symptoms of acid reflux disease, despite earlier beliefs, weight loss does. If you are carrying excess weight, losing the extra pounds can help to minimize the unpleasant symptoms you’re experiencing.

2. If you still smoke, stop. Smoking has been shown to reduce the esophageal sphincter’s ability to shut off the valve between the stomach and the throat. That results in more frequent, and painful, symptoms.

3. Sleeping with the head of the bed elevated, and sleeping on the left side have both been shown to be effective in treating the symptoms of acid reflux disease.

4. Antacids are usually effective in treating heartburn and acid reflux disease, but remember, if your symptoms are severe and persistent, over the counter medications may not do the job. Speak to your doctor about stronger and more efficient treatments.

5. A doctor will also be able to confirm if the bacteria H. Pylori is present. This bacterium has been linked to the formation of ulcers, and that will make the symptoms you’re experiencing from heartburn and acid reflux disease seem like a walk in the park! If your doctor does discover the bacteria, antibiotics will be prescribed.

6. In very severe cases of heartburn and acid reflux disease, or where the valves that regulate stomach acid are permanently damaged, surgery may be advised by your doctor. There are several options available, so be sure to discuss which best suits your case with him. Also remember that you should always consider second opinions where surgery is concerned!

7. There are plenty of natural remedies out there that might also be effective in treating milder cases of heartburn and acid reflux disease. These include aloe Vera juice, deglycyrrhizinated licorice (the liqorice herb with certain ingredients removed) and the herb marshmallow are all folk remedies that have been used for years.

Unless you have pinpointed the cause of your heartburn, such as pregnancy, it’s a good idea to visit your doctor. Heart conditions can mimic the symptoms of acid reflux disease, and since it’s also linked to stress, it’s a good idea to get your doctor to give you the all clear. He or she can also advise you on the best course of treatment, and gauge the severity of your case. Either way, it’ll set your mind at rest, and let you find an effective cure for those annoying and painful symptoms!

From the Author of Hypothyroid Treatment