If you are afflicted with acid reflux, then you know first-hand that the symptoms are quite uncomfortable. There are times when it completely disrupts the activities of daily living. You will be happy to know there are ways to ease your suffering. Take some time and read the advise in this article.
Fatty Foods
Fatty foods are much worse for anyone who suffers from acid reflux than healthier options. Foods high in fat signal the lower esophageal sphincter to cease function for a bit, causing acids to go in the wrong direction. Fatty foods also cause weight gain, which increases your susceptibility to reflux. Try to stay as healthy as possible with your diet.
It is time for you to quit smoking. Acid reflux can be caused or worsened by the use of cigarettes or cigars. It also slows digestion and increases acid production in the stomach while slowing down the production of saliva. The esophageal sphincter is weakened as a result. That’s why you need to butt out today.
Stress is a huge opponent of acid reflux. Acid is produced when you put excess tension on your body. Relax after you eat. You can watch some television, read a good book or do anything relaxing.
Watch what you eat. Certain foods and beverages are more likely to cause these effects. Becoming aware of your own triggers can help you to avoid those foods and alleviate reflux.
Acid Reflux
If you are a smoker and suffer from acid reflux, you need to quit. Your stomach acid is increased by nicotine and this will make acid reflux worse. However, it is not wise to quit cold turkey; doing so could put stress on the body and worsen acid reflux. Quit slowly instead.
Do not lay down for at least two hours following a meal. Lying down allows acid to climb up your esophagus. As long as you sit up or stand up, you’ll find that your esophagus feels better.
Heart Attack
Reflux may feel painful enough to trick you into thinking you are suffering from a heart attack. Always take chest pains very seriously. This may be a heart attack. Get to the doctor pronto. Even if it means an extra trip to urgent care, it is better than risking your life.
To help combat acid reflux, use something to raise up your bed at the head portion only. This can be done by using bricks, blocks of wood or by getting those raisers that are built for lifting up a bed. Raise the head of the bed about six inches. Raising your head is a good way of keeping the acid in your stomach.
One of the major causes of heart burn is alcohol. It should be avoided. Alcohol causes acid build up in your stomach and it may deteriorate the lining in your stomach, which can cause acid reflux. Try to limit your alcohol when you go out with friends so you don’t suffer from reflux all night.
Try to limit the triggers of stress in your life stemming from school, relationships or personal issues. Stress can produce more acid, which will come up through your stomach and cause acid reflux. Whatever the source of stress in your life, limit it or eliminate it.
Acid reflux does not have to rule over your life. By following the tips listed above, you can get back to your normal, pain-free life. Following the advice above will help you take your life back.