If your voice sounds rough and your throat hurts, you might think you're getting a cold or the flu. But if these symptoms stick around for a while, they could be caused by something else — a valve in your body called the lower esophageal sphincter.
Source: Long-term effects of acid reflux can eventually lead to Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
This valve controls the passage between your esophagus and stomach. When it doesn't close properly, stomach acid and food can sneak back up into the esophagus. Doctors call this gastroesophageal reflux, and the acid going the wrong way is called acid reflux. Acid reflux can make your throat hurt and your voice sound hoarse, and it might even give you a bad taste in your mouth.
What causes acid reflux and what does it feel like exactly?
Acid reflux occurs when stomach acid and food flow back up into the esophagus, causing discomfort and irritation. When these symptoms persist over time, it's known as gastroesophageal reflux disorder (GERD).
Symptoms of acid reflux can include:
- Heartburn: A burning sensation in the upper abdomen and chest, which is the most common symptom.
- Regurgitation: Stomach contents coming back up into the throat or mouth, sometimes leading to a sour taste.
- Chest pain
- Nausea
- Difficulty swallowing or pain while swallowing
- Complications in the mouth, throat, or lungs, such as chronic cough or hoarseness.
Three main factors contribute to acid reflux:
- Poor clearance of food or acid from the esophagus
- Excessive stomach acid,
- Delayed stomach emptying.
Without proper treatment, acid reflux can lead to more severe health issues. Some individuals may require medication or surgery. However, many people can manage their acid reflux symptoms through self-care and lifestyle changes.
10 At-home Remedies For Acid Reflux
Source: Excellent home remedies for acid reflux
If you want to avoid acid reflux or get rid of heartburn fast, here are ten simple ways to help ease - and maybe even stop - your symptoms:
1. Natural Remedies For Acid Reflux
In folklore, there are numerous natural remedies for treating acid reflux, including:
- Ginger: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, ginger can help soothe the stomach and alleviate acid reflux symptoms.
- Turmeric: it contains curcumin, which has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce inflammation in the esophagus and ease acid reflux symptoms.
- Baking Soda: Baking soda acts as a natural antacid, neutralizing stomach acid and providing temporary relief from heartburn.
- Aloe vera: Aloe vera juice can help soothe the esophagus and reduce inflammation, providing relief from acid reflux symptoms. You can find this ingredient in Cumargold
Source: Aloe vera is loaded with vitamins, minerals, and amino acids.
- Black Pepper: Black pepper stimulates digestion and may help prevent the occurrence of acid reflux by promoting proper digestion.
- Licorice Root: It has demulcent properties that can coat the esophagus and stomach lining, providing relief from heartburn and acid reflux.
- Herbal teas: Herbal teas like chamomile, licorice, and marshmallow root can help soothe the stomach lining and reduce acid reflux symptoms.
2. Food Remedies for Acid Reflux Relief
Here are some common food remedies for acid reflux relief:
- Oatmeal: It is a low-acid food that can help absorb stomach acid and provide a soothing effect on the esophagus.
- Vegetables: Such as broccoli, carrots, and green beans are low in acid and can be easily digested, making them ideal choices for acid reflux relief.
- Lean proteins: Lean proteins like chicken, turkey, and fish are easier to digest compared to fatty meats and can help reduce the risk of acid reflux symptoms.
- Whole grains: Like brown rice, quinoa, and whole wheat bread are high in fiber and can help absorb excess stomach acid, promoting better digestion.
- Yogurt: It contains probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria that can help maintain a healthy balance of gut flora and reduce inflammation in the digestive tract.
- Almonds: they are alkaline-forming nuts that can help neutralize stomach acid and provide relief from heartburn.
3. During Pregnancy
During pregnancy, many women experience acid reflux due to hormonal changes and the growing uterus putting pressure on the stomach.
Here are some remedies to help alleviate acid reflux symptoms during pregnancy:
- Eat small, frequent meals: Instead of large meals, opt for smaller, more frequent meals to prevent overloading the stomach and minimize acid reflux.
- Avoid trigger foods: Identify and avoid foods that trigger acid reflux symptoms, such as spicy or acidic foods, caffeine, chocolate, and fried foods.
- Stay upright after eating: Avoid lying down immediately after meals. Instead, stay upright for at least an hour to allow gravity to help keep stomach acid down.
- Sleep with your upper body elevated: Elevate the head of your bed by placing blocks under the bed frame or using a wedge pillow to keep your upper body elevated while sleeping. This can help prevent acid reflux during the night.
- Chew gum: Chewing sugar-free gum after meals can increase saliva production, which helps neutralize stomach acid and alleviate acid reflux symptoms.
- Drink fluids between meals: Avoid drinking large amounts of fluids with meals, as this can contribute to acid reflux. Instead, hydrate between meals to avoid adding extra pressure on the stomach.
- Wear loose-fitting clothing: Tight clothing can put pressure on the abdomen and worsen acid reflux symptoms. Opt for loose-fitting clothing to reduce discomfort.
- Try ginger: Ginger has natural anti-inflammatory properties and can help soothe the stomach. Consider drinking ginger tea or adding ginger to your meals to alleviate acid reflux symptoms.
- Speak with your healthcare provider: If your acid reflux symptoms persist or become severe during pregnancy, consult your healthcare provider. They can provide guidance and may recommend safe medications or other treatments to manage your symptoms.
Prevent Damage From Acid Reflux
Here are simple ways to help prevent acid reflux:
- Raise the head of your bed.
- Don't lie down right after eating; wait at least two hours
- Avoid eating for at least two hours before bedtime.
- Wear loose clothes.
- Keep a healthy weight.
- Stay away from foods and medicines that trigger acid reflux.
- Quit smoking.
- Limit how much alcohol you drink.
In Conclusion
Taking steps to acid reflux home remedies can greatly improve your quality of life and protect your digestive health. By following these simple strategies, making dietary and lifestyle changes, such as avoiding trigger foods and quitting smoking, can further reduce your risk of experiencing acid reflux symptoms. By incorporating these preventive measures into your daily routine, you can promote better digestive health and enjoy a more comfortable life free from the discomfort of acid reflux.
