Reflux occurs when stomach acid leaks back into the esophagus. Symptoms include heartburn, bitterness in the mouth, and irritation in the throat. Some lifestyle changes should be made to relieve reflux without medication. Natural solutions and lifestyle changes have a high rate of eliminating reflux without medication. Avoiding certain foods and not eating before going to bed prevents stomach acid from leaking into the esophagus, which also prevents reflux from occurring.
What causes reflux?
There are several different factors that can cause reflux, a condition in which stomach acid flows back into the esophagus. The causes of reflux can be listed as follows:
- Lower esophageal sphincter: This muscle group, which acts as a valve between the stomach and the esophagus, normally prevents the esophagus from taking back acid from the stomach. Weakening and relaxing of this muscle causes reflux.
- Lifestyle factors: Certain conditions, such as obesity, pregnancy, and smoking, increase the risk of reflux.
- Eating habits: Foods and drinks are very effective on reflux. Especially acidic foods, fatty and fried foods, alcohol and caffeine increase the acid production in the stomach and cause reflux.
- Other medical conditions: Some health problems cause reflux. These include gastritis, hiatal hernia, and diabetes.
Reflux symptoms and treatment
Reflux disease has symptoms that vary from person to person. The most common symptoms of reflux can be listed as follows:
- Heartburn: The most common symptom of reflux is heartburn. It is generally felt behind the breastbone and occurs especially after eating.
- Bitter water coming into the mouth: It is the feeling of stomach acid in the mouth and is among the symptoms of reflux.
- Feeling of irritation in the throat: It is the irritation of the esophagus by acid, causing itching, irritation and pain.
- Difficulty swallowing and chest pain: Difficulty swallowing may occur because stomach acid irritates the esophagus. In the chest area, it causes a burning or pressure sensation.
- Dry cough: Reflux can cause coughing and is especially noticeable when lying down or lying down.
Reflux symptoms vary, and treatment may also vary depending on the severity and cause of the symptoms. The first thing to do in reflux treatment is to change eating habits. Reflux treatment can begin by avoiding acidic and fatty foods. Weight control and stress management are also among reflux treatments. In addition, medications prescribed under the supervision of a doctor are also effective in treating reflux and should be used in severe reflux symptoms.
How to treat reflux?
There are various methods to get rid of reflux or relieve its symptoms. The most effective method to overcome reflux is to regulate eating habits. It is possible to reduce stomach pressure with small and frequent meals instead of large portions. In addition, avoiding acidic and fatty foods is the most effective method to overcome reflux. Those with reflux should also be careful not to lie down after eating. Using a high pillow is one of the elements that helps to overcome reflux. In order to overcome reflux, which can also occur due to being overweight, a healthy diet should be followed and the pressure that excess weight puts on the stomach should be eliminated.
What relieves reflux the fastest?
Many people with reflux want to get rid of this condition quickly. Fibrous foods are good for reflux disease and cure it quickly. Also, apple, banana, ginger, broccoli, cucumber and chamomile herbal tea are effective foods to cure reflux quickly.
Does reflux go away without medication?
In this regard, the active substances that cause reflux should be taken into consideration. If the reflux symptoms continue continuously and for a long time, medication should be used with the help of a specialist. However, if the symptoms are mild, they can pass without medication. However, it is essential to consult a doctor for definitive information.