Dr. Gala

Introduction

Acidity or Acid Reflux is one of the most common Clinical Condition which triggered by Stress, irregular food habits or taking too much of spices.

Acidity or Acid Reflux refers to regurgitation of acid or partly digested food from the stomach into the food pipe (oesophagus) or mouth. With the help of gravity, a muscular valve called the lower oesophageal sphincter (LES), keeps stomach acid in the stomach. The LES is located where the oesophagus meets the stomach.

Normally, it opens to allow food into the stomach or to permit belching, then closes again. But if the LES opens too frequently or for too long, stomach acid can seep into the oesophagus and cause a burning sensation. The sourness of Acid Reflux is due to fermentation of food in the stomach or over-secretion of acid.

Causes

• Stress
• Irregular Eating Habits
• Obesity
• Alcohol
• Certain drugs like aspirin, antibiotics, etc
• Over-eating
• Bending, lying down or physical exertion too soon after eating
• Pregnancy
• Smoking
• Certain food which relax the LES like tomatoes, citrus fruits, garlic, onions, chocolate, coffee, tea, alcohol and peppermint

Symptoms of Acidity(Acid Reflux)

• A burning sensation, usually in the lower chest just behind breastbone (the sternum), that occurs after eating, and lasts from a few minutes to several hours.
• Chest pain after bending over or lying down; after eating or drinking alcohol.
• Pain relieved by belching or antacids.
• Belching, sour eructations
• Burning in throat - or hot, sour, or salty-tasting fluid at the back of the throat - and a feeling that food is getting stuck after swallowing.
• Sour taste in mouth with nausea.

Homeopathic Treatment for Acidity(Acid Reflux)

Acidity is a functional constitutional problem and can be treated successfully with Homeopathic medicines. When we give Homeopathic treatment for Acidity, it serves to optimize the functioning of the LES and acid secretion in the stomach reduces. Homeopathic treatment for Acidity along with a few lifestyle changes will give effective and long lasting relief.

While deciding the individualized constitutional medicines, a detailed history of the patient is taken. The case taking includes evaluation of the physical and mental aspects of the person including the triggering factors like stress, diet, genetic predisposition, etc. The medicine thus prescribed gives lasting relief and helps to overcome dependence on antacids.