Understanding Acid Reflux

Acid reflux is when stomach acids move back into the esophagus via sphincter valve that defines the two. And being that the esophagus has no protective lining like the stomach, acid gets in the esophagus which can be very painful. The more acid that travels to the esophagus the damaging it can be. Having acid reflux doesn't mean permanent damage to your esophagus. Everyone might have some form of heartburn at one time or another, these are just a few steps you might take to prevent and treat acid reflux.

Number one, see your doctor. Acid reflux could be a result of a larger problem on a more serious scale. Changing your daily diet may help you to reduce acid reflux. Eat protein dishes. Protein helps makes the muscles in your esophagus stronger, thus reducing acid reflux symptoms. Cut down on the sodas. Foods and drinks that have caffeine can aggravate acid reflux. So avoiding these items, as well as alcoholic drinks cut out the acid reflux. Ingest more fruits and vegetables which aid in digestion, but make sure you avoid the ones with acid such as citrus fruits and tomatoes.

A percentage of 75 people suffer from acid reflux will get their symptom at night or right while they go to bed. You might rid yourself of acid reflux by following a couple steps: Never go to bed on a full stomach. You should at least stop eating 2 hours prior before bedtime. You really should try exercising before you lay down. Sleeping with your head lifted slightly. Adding extra pillows will help, plus supporting your upper back. Special form wedges can be used to raise the upper body. Laying on your left side also helps in reducing your chances for reflux.

Once you have made a change in your lifestyle and you still suffer from acid reflux you need to look into taking some form of medication. You can go prescription or non-prescription the choice is yours, plus you have a great number of products to choose from. Almost all of these medicines reduce the amounts of acids formed in the stomach. The names of drugs that might be taken are: Prilosec could be used in both forms. Heartburn suffers use short term relief with OTC, over the counter medicine. Or if your suffering from painful stomach ulcers, a doctor may prescribe a much more stronger version.

Protonix is another medication which will only be obtain through a prescription. Taking Protonix results in the reducing of acid by 90% ih subjects. Zantac is the oldest kind of acid reflux medicine you will buy OTC and with prescription. Zantac not only prevents acid reflux, but heals the esophagitis as well. Still to this date there's not a cure for acid reflux, patients will just have to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Plus take medications in order to control or prevent symptoms.