Acid reflux (Heartburn ) is caused by acid found in the stomach,where it helps to breakdown food-rising up into the gullet(passage between the pharynx and the stomach). Unlike the stomach,the gullet does not have a protective lining, and so it becomes sore and inflamed. This causes heartburn.This disease requires a long term therapy in most patients
Some life style changes involve
- Sleeping with 2 pillows to keep the stomach acid out of the esophagus at night
- Taking antacids(zantac,pepcid etc) after each meal
- Avoiding certain foods causing acid reflux
- And Do not eating before bed time
Some antioxidants can protect againist esophageal inflammation according to recent study.
The constant irritation of stomach acids on the lining of the esophagus can result in an increased risk of cancer and esophagitis.