What is it
The term gastric acidity, or heartburn, indicates a burning sensation noticeable at the mouth of the stomach (epigastrium). In this condition, the production of gastric acid is higher than normal.
It can be of an acute or chronic nature, and in any case it can cause irritation or inflammation of the mucous membrane of the stomach, noticeable at the level of the upper abdomen.
Causes
Often stomach acid is an occasional problem and the cause is easy to identify: too large meals, consumption of particular foods and alcohol or medications.
The dietary lifestyle therefore plays an important role in the manifestation of this disorder.
In this case, and when the acidity occurs after or before meals, it is likely an episode of acute gastritis or gastric ulcer.
When the symptom is chronic and occurs away from meals, it could be a duodenal ulcer.
Finally, it is necessary not to underestimate the importance of emotional factors, since burning and regurgitation often occur in anxious subjects.
Common symptoms
Usually an annoying burning sensation occurs in the stomach, with more or less frequent episodes in a given period.
If the burning radiates upwards and regurgitation is also present, there may be a gastroesophageal reflux problem.
In this case, posture also affects the appearance of symptoms: for example, you should avoid going to bed immediately after meals.
Prevention
How to prevent stomach acid? Here are some things to do, and others to avoid.
| What to do | What to avoid |
|---|---|
| Follow a light diet free of irritants | Snacks after dinner so as not to increase nocturnal gastric secretion |
| Chew slowly to allow the stomach to have the necessary time to make the best use of its digestive secretions | Drinks that are too hot or iced, and those that stimulate the secretion of gastric acid, such as coffee and alcohol |
| Anxious and stressful states | |
| Taking anti-inflammatory drugs |
Treatment
The main purpose is to raise the pH of the stomach, which in heartburn turns out to be too low.
Self-medication is widely practiced by people who frequently suffer from stomach acid, with the use of antacid remedies that can be purchased in pharmacies without a prescription.
In addition to antacids, the pharmacological therapy indicated for these cases is based on the use of prokinetics, molecules that promote gastric emptying) and antisecretives (to decrease stomach secretion).
Joycelyn Elders is the author and creator of EmpowerEssence, a health and wellness blog. Elders is a respected public health advocate and pediatrician dedicated to promoting general health and well-being.
The blog covers a wide range of topics related to health and wellness, with articles organized into several categories.