Chronic acid reflux is also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease or, abbreviated, GERD. This condition affects one's stomach and the esophagus. Stomach acid in such patients reach and damage these areas due to a dysfunctional lower esophageal sphincter muscle.
The Problem
The lower esophageal sphincter muscle is located at the bottom of the esophagus, the top of our stomach. This muscle, when we eat, allows the food to pass from our throat into the stomach, closing the passage immediately afterwards. When this muscle is not functioning properly, it either does not close the passage correctly or opens up too often, allowing the acids from our stomach area to reach the esophagus, leading to heartburn. If your heartburn takes place more than two times a week, you need to seek medical attention since, when neglected, this condition can evolve into something more serious leading to severe health complications.
Interestingly, some people suffer from acid reflux while some do not. Certain experts claim that people who have hiatal hernia affecting the lower esophageal sphincter, tend to suffer from conditions such as GERD as well.
Additional Causes and Treatment
In most cases, inappropriate diet causes acid reflux in people. Drinking soda, caffeinated drinks or coffee excessively are all factors which can lead to acid reflux in the long run. Thus, you need to avoid these beverages, drinking water before and after meals in order to keep heartburn and other such problems at bay. Fatty foods are yet another culprit. So, you are better off with salads, vegetables and fruits, as well as with other health and natural sources of nutrients.
Additionally, you may want to reconsider some of your habits. Basically, if you are a smoker, know that this habit of yours is affecting your health and give your best not to indulge into cigarette consumption anymore. The same goes for alcohol. Also, if you are suffering from excessive body weight, give your best to lose those extra pounds. By leading a physically active life and eating the right food, you can make all the necessary changes. Analyze your life and break the habits which are the possible causes of heartburn, GERD or acid reflux. Once you do this, you will prevent this condition from getting more complicated, leading to serious health problems.
All in all, healthy life leads to a healthy body. Therefore, do your best to live healthy every day, focusing on proper nutrition and a lifestyle which promotes your well-being.
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