Acid Reflux Medications

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Acid Reflux occurs when the acids and enzymes in the stomach become overactive and escape the stomach into the esophagus. Technically, the entrance of your stomach which is a ring of muscle called the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) closes as food passes through it. If the LES neglects to close or it opens more often than it should, the acid in the stomach has the space and opportunity to escape into the esophagus. As a result of the stomach acids finding the esophagus there can be a great pain and discomfort that can ultimately cause a burning sensation. This burning sensation is what is known as heartburn. If this type of heartburn happens often (namely two times a week) you likely suffer from acid reflux disease.

Acid reflux disease may be caused by a hiatal hernia (an abnormality in the stomach). This happens when the LES and upper part of the stomach move above the diaphragm. If you suffer from a hiatal hernia the acids that usually remain in the stomach move up into the diaphragm causing acid reflux disease symptoms.

Common acid reflux symptoms include:

Regurgitation: This is usually a result of the ...
... acid build up. Your body attempts to rid of what it finds to be causing internal problems and it does this by forcing a regurgitation. The regurgitation usually is onset by a bitter, sour taste in the throat and mouth.

Heartburn: Heartburn can be gradual or it can occur instantly. Those who experience an immediate striking pain in the chest cavity as a result of acid reflux heartburn often mistake the heartburn for a heart attack. Heartburn doesn't necessarily remain centralized in the chest. There have been instances when sufferers have complained of heartburn in the stomach and throat.

Dysphagia: This is a narrowing of the esophagus. If this narrowing occurs the consumption of food and liquids can be quite uncomfortable as food and liquids seem to get stuck in the narrowed passage.

There are several ways to treat acid reflux. It is important to find the course of treatment that works best for you. You may have to try a variety of treatments before discovering the treatment that is perfectly suiting.

A few lifestyle changes combined with safe treatment should do the trick at remedying your acid reflux. If you are a smoker it would be a great idea to eliminate that aspect of your lifestyle. It certainly doesn't help. Also try eating smaller meals more frequently throughout the day and eat at least two to three hours prior to lying down.

There are those who find relief by trying a few over the counter antacids including Maalox, Alka-Seltzer and Mylanta that may do the trick. Be aware that these antacids may cause diarrhea or constipation so you may want to opt for antacids that contain aluminum hydroxide and magnesium hydroxide. Baking soda is an awesome antacid alternative.

For more natural remedies you should try aloe vera juice which stabilizes stomach acids. Also try drinking water before during and after meals. This works to neutralize stomach acids and aids in food digestion.

These are just a few acid reflux medications. For more information on acid reflux and available medications check out www.refluxremedy.com.