Certain factors can contribute to heartburn, such as obesity and pregnancy, which place added pressure on the stomach. Nearly half of all pregnant women suffer from heartburn, and about one third of the population suffers from heartburn at least occasionally.
Occasional heartburn, while uncomfortable, is generally harmless. Frequent heartburn can cause permanent damage. Frequent heartburn is known as acid reflux disease. This condition is also called gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD. When acid reflux occurs frequently over long periods of time, the damage can cause inflammation and actually damage the esophagus. Ulcers can form over time and lead to bleeding in the esophagus, which can sometimes become severe enough to require medial intervention. GERD is typically a lifelong condition, and any treatments used to decrease reflux and heal the esophagus must be continued in order to prevent recurrence.
Certain foods are known to cause heartburn and acid reflux, primarily because they relax the lower esophageal sphincter that is responsible for sealing stomach acid in the stomach. These foods include chocolate, peppermint, caffeine, onions, and acidic foods such as tomatoes or citrus fruit. Stress and smoking can also cause or worsen heartburn by contributing to acid production.
Heartburn and GERD can cause a patient significant discomfort. Reflux that occurs at night can cause difficulty sleeping. Some people even need to sleep on an incline, with their heads propped up, in order to try to use gravity to keep some of the acid down. Heartburn can also mimic the symptoms of a more serious problem, such as a heart attack, so the condition can cause added stress and concern for an otherwise healthy individual.
GERD can also lead to coughing, because the acid reflux stimulates certain nerves that cause coughing. If the acid reaches the throat, it can cause a sore throat and a hoarse sounding voice. In patients who suffer from asthma, it is believed that acid reflux can contribute to asthma attacks.
Don't let frequent heartburn control your life. Make a commitment to undertake a holistic approach to dealing with your painful acid reflux. There are natural methods that claim to be highly effective in keeping the painful and uncomfortable symptoms of heartburn at bay. Try a natural approach now to start to control your pain!
Megavista-Health.com is an independent website giving cutting-edge information on positive, holistic health and nutrition. Learn more about heartburn and acid reflux by visiting http://www.megavista-health.com/articles/health-conditions/heartburn-acid-reflux
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