How to effectively relieve heartburn?
Heartburn, or gastroesophageal reflux disease, occurs when acid produced by the stomach rises up into the esophagus. The gastric juice coming from the stomach is too acidic for the walls of the esophagus, and then one can feel a burning sensation or irritation. When she does, how do you comfort her?
Simple measures to reduce symptoms
Small gestures applied daily can help reduce the pain and discomfort associated with GERD.
Avoid fatty meals and fatty foods. Foods that are high in fat increase heartburn.
Take the time to chew your food well to promote digestion.
Eat dinner 3 to 4 hours before bed, as lying down promotes GERD. Otherwise, raise your head about ten centimeters.
Don't exercise after eating because the acid can back up into the esophagus and cause heartburn.
Do not smoke, as this relaxes the sphincter muscle, which causes acidity when in contact with stomach acid.
Avoid alcohol, as its consumption leads to the production of acidity in the stomach.
Avoid certain foods and drinks.
Herbal remedy
Some plants are very effective in relieving heartburn.
Among them, lemon balm is known to reduce the production of stomach acids, which helps protect the walls of the stomach and intestines. It can be consumed as an infusion.
The use of licorice root is also effective and recognized by Committee E for the treatment of stomach and esophageal ulcers. Facilitates the formation of mucus that lines the stomach wall and protects it from gastric juices.
Because of their high pectin and mucilage content, marshmallow, mallow, elm, mullein, nopal, and banana are traditionally used to soothe irritation of the mucous membrane that lines the digestive tract.
As for essential oils, clementine essential oil, massaged into the stomach and solar plexus, diluted with vegetable oil, helps relieve heartburn. Peppermint and Roman chamomile essential oils also work against acid reflux, but internally. Talk to a specialist.
Finally, on the spice side, turmeric is a very good antioxidant that helps fight heartburn that can be taken in powder, injection, or liquid form.
baking soda
Among its countless properties, baking soda is also effective in combating heartburn.
For this, dilute a teaspoon of baking soda in a glass of water to drink right away.
However, a technique with misting can be used, as it can modulate the acid-base metabolism in case of excessive use.
Pharmacological treatments
Several medications can be given to reduce stomach acid:
Antacids, which neutralize gastric acidity in the short term, and therefore should be taken if symptoms develop, on an occasional basis.
H2 antagonists, which reduce stomach acid production. It can be taken once or twice a day, an hour before a meal.
Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) block acid secretion over a 24-hour period. These are the most effective medications for treating recurrent reflux disease. However, it can cause side effects if not taken properly.
You should know that 30% to 40% of people with GERD continue to have signs of reflux or feel embarrassed despite proper treatment.