Acid Reflux- An uncommon name with a common occurrence.

Acid reflux is a condition when the gastric juices containing acid travels back to esophagus from stomach. When we eat food, it passes down the esophagus to the stomach. The lining in the stomach produces acids which helps us digest food. The cell lining in the stomach is also covered by mucous which protects it from the acids. There is no or very little protection to the esophagus from these acids. When the acids travel back to the esophagus, the situation of acid reflux occurs and the cells are damaged.

The symptoms which are shown in this condition are,

1. Heart burn.
2. Regurgitation.
3. Chest pain.
4. Difficulty in swallowing food.
5. Hoarseness, dental erosion, asthma.

Acid Reflux, a common enemy. (courtesy:www.barrettshelp.com)

This problem is faced regularly by some people. In such people the stomach acid travels back into the esophagus which causes inflammation and damage. The factors which are responsible to this condition are fatty acids, cigarettes, chocolate, caffeine, alcohol, obesity, pregnancy and delayed stomach emptying. Obesity and pregnancy increases the pressure on body abdomen, pushing back the stomach contents into esophagus. One other reason is that some patients empty their content into the intestines very slowly.

Acid reflux makes people uncomfortable as it affects their quality of life and every day activities. The lining of the esophagus is damaged and may become ulcerated, narrowing it making swallowing of food, liquids painful and difficult. The best way out of this condition is to get acquainted with the natural medicines.