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Home Remedies What is acid reflux disease

What is Acid Reflux Disease?

Acid reflux disease is a condition which induces heartburn. Acid reflux can last for months if not treated properly. Natural remedies for heartburn normally work well in most cases but Drug treatment may be needed in some cases where some of the symptoms may re-occur. More than 60 million Americans suffer from Acid reflux disease.

So what is Acid reflux disease exactly?

Acid reflux is a condition where gastric juices containing acid (and food and liquid in some cases) back up into esophagus the muscular tube (gullet or swallowing tube) that connects throat and stomach

Acid reflux occurs as a result of malfunctioning of LES. Let us understand it in its simplicity.

The lower esophageal sphincter (LES), is a ring like muscular valve located at the bottom of esophagus. It normally keeps acid and other substances in stomach. With the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) relaxing the pressure is reduced and the acid and food move up into esophagus from the stomach. Since the tender lining of esophagus can’t protect against stomach acids, heartburn symptoms or indigestion is felt.

Persistent acid reflux can result in scarring of the esophagus. Possibilities of Pneumonia or bronchitis increases as stomach acid can reflux and seep into the lungs through the trachea (windpipe). This is more likely to happen when you are lying down or sleeping. If stomach acid backs up into your mouth due to Acid reflux then it can destroy tooth enamel as well.

Diet play a vital role in controlling and preventing acid reflux. A good acid reflux disease diet varies from person to person but certain spicy foods can cause acid reflux in any one. Keep track of what causes heartburn in your case and avoid those food  items.

People with hiatal hernia are also at the risk of suffering from Acid reflux because hiatal hernia impairs the functioning of the LES.

The discomfort associated with acid reflux can affect quality of life and everyday activities including work. In extreme cases when the lining of the esophagus is severely damaged swallowing of food and even liquids in some case become very painful and difficult.

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