These days acidity is a common from the young to the old. Acidity or acid reflux is also known as heart burn. It happens when the acid contents of the stomach pass upward into the food pipe causing a burning sensation.

Human stomach has some acid to help in food digestion. Heartburn is caused when some of this acid is forced out of the stomach and into the food pipe. And this is what in common man’s language is called acidity.

There are many reasons behind heartburn. In our part of the world, high fat content in our traditional dishes is the main culprit. Fatty food digests very slowly and stays in the stomach for a long time which can put pressure on the stomach, forcing the acid to move up into the food pipe. Other reasons include excess use of caffeine, spicy food, improper sleep patterns, smoking or alcohol intake, citrus fruits and citrus juices etc. Water shortage in the body can also cause acid reflux. Obesity is another factor that may be causing the irritating heartburn.

Symptoms include pain in the upper portion of the abdomen, which spreads up to the ribs on the front and the back, nausea, loss of appetite, burps, and in severe cases, vomiting. Stress is known to trigger actions that increase the acidity.

There are many home remedies that can help ease the symptoms of heart burn. It is good to eat something as soon as you feel the heart burn. You can opt for a cup of cold milk or a small bowl of yogurt for immediate relief. You should also make sure to eat small but frequent meals as an empty stomach triggers heart burn. If you know you are going to be out for a long time, keep something to eat in your bag like chewable candies or biscuits.

Avoid eating just before going to sleep. Avoid staying hungry for long time durations. Also avoid spicy food for some days if you face heart burn. You should also try to sleep well, as lack of sleep and rest can also cause acidity. Losing weight also helps in curing heart burn. Include walking in your daily activities and last but not the least, wear lose clothes.

Some medicines also cause acidity. If you frequently face this problem, do tell your doctor to consider it before getting a prescription. Your doctor can change your medicine or prescribe an antacid to go with your medicine.

If you face heartburn rarely, maybe after eating something extra spicy, the problem can go away itself with some home remedies. But if the problem increases, you should immediately contact your doctor. A minor heartburn, if not taken care of, can turn into gastric ulcers.

A small change in lifestyle today can prevent a major illness tomorrow. Walk around, eat sensibly and live a happy healthy life.