Stomach Reflux- Causes, Symptoms, Treatment & Diet

Stomach reflux, also known as gastric reflux, involves stomach acids rising upwards toward the esophagus, damaging its lining. Esophagus is where food passes through before it enters our stomach. Stomach acids sometimes travel back from the stomach into the esophagus. The problem here is that the esophagus is not capable of bearing the effect of strong acids, unlike the inner linings of the stomach which are strong enough to withstand hydrochloric acid. Stomach reflux is not a very severe condition and could be cured if the cause or causes are detected; however, if left untreated, it can also become a chronic condition which could lead to more harmful effects to the body.

Causes of stomach reflux:

Stomach reflux can be triggered by many everyday habits. The food style we are dependent on can even become a factor for stomach reflux. Most of the spicy, oily, fat-rich, and fried varieties of food can increase the chances of getting stomach reflux when consumed. Fresh citrus fruits rich in vitamin C can also become a factor for causing stomach reflux. Oranges, grapes, lemons, and pineapples are not recommended if one is trying to avoid stomach reflux. The underlying causes of this bothersome medical condition are the relaxed muscles in the esophagus and the esophageal sphincter. Increase in pressure on the stomach can also become a cause, as it pushes the gastric secretions out of the stomach.

Predisposing factors of stomach reflux include constipation, obesity, pregnancy, and a hiatal hernia.

Symptoms of stomach reflux:

Stomach reflux has to be diagnosed immediately to avoid complications and for this, the identification of symptoms is essential. One common symptom of stomach reflux is indigestion. Stomach reflux can be really annoying as it causes irritation and pain in the lower chest region. This pain in the chest is often mistakenly diagnosed to be heart attack. Nausea after a meal, dyspepsia, and regurgitation are some common symptoms experienced when suffering from stomach reflux. If stomach reflux becomes severe, this implies that the inner lining of esophagus may start bleeding.

Treatment for stomach reflux:

Stomach reflux can be easily cured or relieved instantly by making use of some healthy edible products at home. Food items such as ginger, turmeric, baking soda, or apple cider vinegar help to suppress the effects of stomach reflux. You can also use chewing gum as an instant stomach reflux reliever. The excessive secretion of saliva forms a coat over the acidic secretions and this prevents the esophagus from getting scratched and irritated. Treatment for stomach reflux also includes some medications.

Diet to counter stomach reflux:

Getting into a proper diet to overcome stomach reflux may completely alter your usual food habits. All junk foods are to be avoided and the best organic foods should be added to your diet. Preserved and processed foods should be eschewed as well as they can increase secretions of the stomach. The first and foremost change to be brought into your lifestyle is to avoid smoking and drinking alcohol. These can trigger acid secretions and so must be avoided.