Acid Reflux

Acid reflux, more properly known as Gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, happens when the sphincter muscle at the bottom of the esophagus that acts as a valve between the esophagus and stomach doesn’t close properly. That causes the stomach contents (including digestive acids) to leak back, or reflux, into the esophagus.

The acids cause a burning sensation in the chest or throat, commonly known as heartburn. If it can be tasted at the back of the mouth, it’s considered acid indigestion. It can happen to anyone at any age, and occasional heartburn is common, but if it occurs more than twice a week, it may be GERD. Some people don’t experience heartburn but have other symptoms like pain in the chest, hoarseness in the morning, or trouble swallowing. It may feel like you have food stuck in your throat or like you are choking or your throat is tight. GERD can also cause a dry cough and bad breath.

Getting to the root of the problem and then taking the most natural approach is usually the healthiest way to manage any health challenge, so doctors usually recommend lifestyle and dietary changes to relieve heartburn. Avoiding certain foods associated with reflux events, like citrus fruits, chocolate, drinks with caffeine, fatty and fried foods, garlic and onions, mint flavorings, spicy foods, and tomato-based foods, like spaghetti sauce, chili, and pizza, may help. For more tips, read this informative article entitled “Acid Reflux: What’s Eating You?”.