Acid Reflux Relief With Home Remedies
Acid reflux has many symptoms that are common with heartburn. Patients who suffer from Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease or GERD typically suffer from heartburn pain more than two days a week. Patients who suffer from GERD may suffer serious effects if it is left untreated it can cause erosion of the esophagus lining and lead to scar tissue. This will cause problems in swallowing. Acid reflux also increases the risk of esophageal cancer.
Symptoms of acid reflux include a dry cough, problems in sleeping, a bad taste in the mouth, bad breath, and tightening of the throat muscles. A patient may find acid in the mouth if they bend down suddenly or overeat.
Doctors say there is not one cause of acid reflux disease but several. A band of muscle tissue called the Lower Esophageal Sphincter can lead to many symptoms and problems of GERD. It is an area of smooth muscles that is responsible for controlling the opening and closing of the esophagus when we eat or swallow. It keeps the stomach contents from regurgitating into the esophagus. If these muscles relax or weaken they fail to keep the pressure barrier between the stomach and esophagus. Acid and pepsin from the stomach can back up into the esophagus and cause acid reflux.
Eating large meals or going to bed immediately after eating can cause acid reflex. Greasy, spicy foods and alcohol also may cause reflux problems. Stress and antidepressants, sedatives, and other medications for stress may also contribute to acid reflux problems. Smoking and drinking large amounts of carbonated drinks have shown to increase acid reflux trouble. You may also suffer from this medical condition if you are pregnant.
Remedies for acid reflux include using an old favorite, apple cider vinegar. Mix one teaspoon of apple cider vinegar to one half glass of water. Sip this mixture while eating your meal. You may also take a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar without adding water.
Gingerroot capsules may be bought at a nutrition store and can also help calm the nerves as well as help with acid reflux. Take one capsule after you are finished with dinner. This normally is your largest meal and the one that causes the most acid reflux attacks.
Many patients report by drinking cold low fat milk helps their GERD attacks. Cold apple juice also is effective. Patients report that eating raw carrots or apples will help with acid reflux.
A natural cure using fennel seeds helps some patients. Chew one half-teaspoon fennel seeds after your meals. Chew the seeds slowly and allow the juice to flow down your throat. Anise and lavender tea is a great way to reduce acid reflux. Mix equal amounts of the two ingredients and pour two one half cups of water over one teaspoon of the mix. Strain, cool, and add little honey to sweeten the liquid. Drink a glass in the morning and in the evening before going to bed. If symptoms persist or worsen, consult your doctor. A more serious condition may exist.
