What happens with heartburn?
Heartburn often occurs after eating too much. However, people who eat an unhealthy diet, consume a lot of alcohol and coffee or suffer from stress can also be affected. What's more, certain medications can also cause heartburn. In the case of reflux, the stomach is stretched so much that the stomach entrance does not close completely for a short time. This can sometimes cause air or even some stomach contents to rise upwards.
Oesophagus burns: what many patients don't know
Why does reflux need to be treated?
Severe or increased reflux is painful and can impair quality of life. There are several causes: In gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), the closing mechanism of the lower esophageal sphincter is disturbed. In 90 percent of cases, a so-called hiatal hernia is present at the same time. The symptoms and complaints are the same: heartburn, painful difficulty swallowing, a feeling of pressure behind the breastbone, dry cough or hoarseness. Reflux disease can also occur as a result of an underlying disease such as scleroderma or a narrowing of the stomach outlet (gastric pouch narrowing): Acidic stomach contents shoot back into the oesophagus because the chyme from the stomach no longer passes completely into the small intestine and the pressure on the stomach is high. Stomach surgery can also be the cause of reflux.
If the sensitive mucous membrane of the oesophagus constantly comes into contact with acidic stomach contents, which are very aggressive, the oesophagus can become permanently inflamed. This can lead to oesophageal cancer. So if you frequently suffer from heartburn, you should definitely consult a doctor. (Source: apotheken.de)
Home remedies and tips against heartburn
Heartburn is often regarded as a "disease of affluence" caused by an unhealthy lifestyle, stress or medication. A healthier lifestyle and a few home remedies can often help. Here are five tricks you can use to prevent or relieve acute heartburn:
1. drink chamomile tea
Most people are familiar with this yellowish drink from childhood as a tried and tested household remedy for stomach ache, cramps, etc. Chamomile also has a calming effect on the stomach in the case of heartburn and has an anti-inflammatory effect. Fennel also has a beneficial effect on digestion.
2. nibble on nuts
Almonds, cashews or hazelnuts bind excess acid when chewed well. Peanuts, on the other hand, should be avoided.
3. eat consciously
Avoid eating too quickly and carbonated drinks. Instead, eat a balanced diet with plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables and little sugar and drink still water. Drink a lot! Liquids flush the acid out of the oesophagus. Avoid all foods that stimulate stomach acid production!
4. alcohol in moderation
One of the most common causes of heartburn is alcohol. Frequent consumption can lead to unpleasant reflux, as the stomach lining becomes very irritated. It doesn't matter whether you drink "light" alcoholic beverages such as beer or wine or hard spirits.
5. sleep properly
Do not eat anything 3 hours before going to bed so that your stomach has enough time to digest. It can also help to elevate your upper body with a second pillow.
6. chew gum
Chewing gum produces saliva, which neutralizes stomach acid.