Acid reflux is also known as heartburn is extremely uncomfortable for those who suffer from it. Acid reflux is a condition when the gastric juices containing acid travel from the stomach into the esophagus. Factors contributing to acid reflux include fatty foods, cigarettes, chocolate, caffeine, alcohol, obesity, pregnancy and delayed stomach emptying.

If the acid reaches the throat, called laryngopharyngeal reflux disease. A simple and relatively harmless way to treat heartburn is to drink a solution of a small amount of baking soda or baking soda mixed with water, which quickly neutralizes the acid that causes pain. It is not a cure so contact a physician if you have consistent acid reflux symptoms for more than a week.

Hoarseness, dental erosion and asthma can all be symptoms as acidic juices making their way to the passages of the throat, mouth and air in the lungs. Antacids provide quick relief of symptoms, but relief lasts only thirty to sixty minutes. Thirty to sixty minutes of relief can be great for those who suffer, but what many people are looking for permanent relief. Some drugs can provide this type of relief.

Drugs used in the treatment of heartburn include acid suppressants, such as histamine blockers or acid H2antagonists. Inhibitors of proton pump working in the cell wall of the stomach that make acid, to reduce the amount of acid produced and distributed in the stomach. Some medications or antacids work by increasing the pressure of lower esophageal sphincter - the muscular valve between the lower end of the stomach and intestine. Most over-the-counter drugs are commonly used to treat symptoms of mild acid related symptoms, such as heartburn or indigestion and work by neutralizing acid in the stomach. If you have heartburn of any kind it can be a sign of a more serious problem.

If heartburn or acid reflux occurs when lying down, relief is often found by raising the head of the bed, raise your upper body with pillows or sleep sitting up. Tight clothing around the abdomen may increase the risk of heartburn because it puts pressure on the stomach, which can cause food and stomach acid to move up into the esophagus. Restrictive diet is very important, because about 90 percent of sufferers of heartburn or esophageal disorder can link their symptoms to specific foods they eat.

Those with acid reflux disease usually experience worse symptoms after eating or when lying down or bending over. Heartburn may signal other problems such as esophagitis, an inflammation of the esophagus or GERD, which can be more serious. Symptoms of heartburn can be frequent and can last several weeks, months or longer if left untreated and develop GERD. Patients should choose the type of foods and beverages that have little risk of causing acid reflux, while some types of foods or beverages should be avoided.

GERD can be a life threatening condition where stomach acid erodes the lining of the stomach that protects it from hydrochloric acid. Once this happens bleeding can occur and cause discoloration of stools or bowel movements. If left untreated, GERD can cause cancer and ultimately death.

In conclusion, most people with acid reflux experience the discomfort associated with these symptoms and live with a reduced quality of life due to the pain extend to everyday activities, including work. Consult a physician if you have heartburn of any kind because acid reflux is not normal and should be considered. Remember to avoid certain foods and lifestyle that promote gastroesophageal reflux, including common beverages such as coffee, alcohol and excessive amounts of vitamin C supplements stimulate gastric acid secretion.