What’s Acid Reflux? Its Causes, Symptoms, and Effective Natural Remedies

Here’s everything you need to know about Acid Reflux. Learn its causes, symptoms, and effective home and natural remedies for acid reflux. Discover natural solutions for acid reflux and start feeling better now! 

Acid reflux affects millions of people worldwide, and sadly that includes me. One of the common symptoms of acid reflux is a burning sensation in the chest (commonly known as heartburn) which occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus.

Most people experience acid reflux from time to time and it’s common after eating large meals or certain foods. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for acid reflux can help you manage the condition and improve your overall well-being.

This article is all about acid reflux and how you can adapt. I’ve already researched natural remedies for acid reflux so you don’t have to. Happy reading!

What is Acid Reflux and why does it happen?

Acid reflux happens when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), a ring of muscle that acts as a valve between the esophagus and stomach, weakens or relaxes abnormally. This allows stomach acid to move upwards into the esophagus, leading to irritation and inflammation.

While occasional acid reflux is common and may not pose a significant health risk, chronic acid reflux can lead to more serious conditions, including esophagitis or Barrett's esophagus, which can increase the risk of esophageal cancer.

Acid Reflux vs Gerd: Is Acid Reflux same as GERD?

Acid reflux and GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease) are related but not exactly the same.

The difference between acid reflux and GERD is the longevity or frequency of ‘acid reflux’ symptoms.

Acid Reflux happens occasionally, especially more commonly after eating large meals or certain foods. The backflow of stomach acid into the esophagus, which can cause symptoms like heartburn, regurgitation, and discomfort is less experienced.

But GERD, on the other hand, is a chronic form of acid reflux. It’s diagnosed when acid reflux occurs more frequently (usually two or more times per week) and starts causing complications or long-term damage to the esophagus. GERD requires ongoing management and, in some cases, medical intervention.

Common Symptoms of Acid Reflux

The severity of acid reflux symptoms can vary from person to person, but some common signs include heartburn, regurgitation, difficulty swallowing, sore throat or hoarseness, chronic cough, and nausea and bloating.

• Heartburn is a burning sensation in the chest, typically after eating or when lying down. Some people describe heartburn as chest pain and often mistaken as a symptom of a heart disease.

• Another symptom is regurgitation which is a sour or bitter-tasting acid backing up into the throat or mouth. You can observe this symptom whenever you burp when you are having an acid reflux.

• Frequent Burping is also a symptom of acid reflux. Sometimes, no matter how little your food intake is, you’ll find yourself burping multiple times in a short period of time.

• Acid can irritate the vocal cords, leading to throat discomfort symptoms like sore throat and hoarseness.

• Chronic cough is also a symptom of acid reflux and it is noticeable after meals or at night. Sometimes, when acid reflux has been acting up for some time already you will feel a phlegm at the back of your throat even though you’re not experiencing a runny nose.

• Nausea and bloating are symptoms that may accompany frequent acid reflux episodes.

Personally, I experienced palpitation and shortness of breath on one of my recent acid reflux attacks. After a week or two, I decided to seek professional help since I couldn’t seem to manage it and I was starting to overthink it since I have a relative who recently passed away from a vehicular accident from a possible heart attack.

I’ve experienced palpitations and it’s making it difficult for me to sleep at night. When I had my checkup, I requested an ECG just to make sure that everything was clear and to check if it was indeed a palpitation that I was experiencing.

Thankfully, my ECG was clear as well as my pulse rate and heartbeat. I even asked the physician to check my back since I was also experiencing heavy breathing, it was also clear so respiratory was ruled out.

Turns out, everything was due to acid reflux. She warned me that I should look out for my health. Acid reflux together with an unhealthy lifestyle could lead to a more serious illness.

What Causes Acid Reflux?

Several factors can contribute to the cause of acid reflux, ranging from dietary choices to lifestyle habits. Below are some common causes:

1. Food That Triggers Acid Reflux

There are some foods that can trigger acid reflux due to its component which can irritate throats and cause acid reflux like spicy foods. Other dietary triggers of acid reflux are the following:

• Spicy foods

• Citrus fruits (e.g., oranges, lemons)

• Caffeine

• Alcohol

• Chocolate

• High-fat or fried foods

• Tomatoes and tomato-based products

2. Lifestyle Factors

Aside from dietary triggers, lifestyle can also contribute to acid reflux. These are some lifestyle factors that contribute to acid reflux:

• Overeating or eating large meals late at night

• Obesity or being overweight

• Smoking

• Lying down immediately after eating

• Wearing tight clothing that puts pressure on the abdomen

3. Medical Conditions

Some people are more prone to acid reflux due to some certain medical conditions.Here are some medical conditions that makes you prone to acid reflux:

• Pregnancy (due to hormonal changes and increased pressure on the abdomen)

• Hiatal hernia (when part of the stomach pushes up into the chest cavity)

• Delayed stomach emptying, which leads to increased stomach acid build-up

Natural Remedies for Acid Reflux

Whenever I’m sick, I always try to manage it naturally. When natural remedies won’t work, that’s when I seek medical professional help.

While there are various medications available to treat acid reflux, natural remedies can offer relief with fewer side effects and are more affordable.

Following these natural remedies for acid reflux may help prevent symptoms and support a healthier lifestyle together with a good acid reflux diet.

1. Maintain a Healthy Weight

Excess weight can put pressure on the stomach and LES, making it easier for acid to backflow into the esophagus. Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight through diet and exercise can significantly reduce symptoms.

Healthy weight differs from one person to another, it depends on your height and age so to know if you are in a healthy weight, you have to measure your BMI (Body Mass Index) which determines the right weight for your age and height.

2. Eat Smaller, More Frequent Meals

Avoid large meals in one go since it increases pressure on the LES. It’s better for acid reflux to aim and eat smaller meals more frequently throughout the day to reduce acid reflux occurrences.

3. Stay Upright After Eating

Gravity plays a crucial role in keeping acid down in the stomach. Refrain from lying down or reclining immediately after meals to prevent reflux. Try to stay upright for at least 2-3 hours after eating.

I personally am guilty of this. Most of the time I just want to lay down and rest after a meal, I get sleepy after meals! But I have to change that since lying down after eating causes acid reflux.

4. Take Non-acidic/Alkaline Foods

Weeks before I had my very bad acid reflux episode, I was guilty of consuming fast food and spicy instant noodles because it’s easier and faster to cook. I have no excuse aside from being lazy and due to my work adjustments.

But a lesson learned, certain foods, such as leafy greens, bananas, melons, oatmeal, and fennel, are less acidic and can help neutralize stomach acid.

Now, not only did I change certain routines but also became mindful of the things that I eat. It was more expensive, but it’s worth it. In just a week, I got all better.

5. Herbal Remedies

I hated herbal stuff, it’s just not for me, aside from tea of course. But I had to do what needed to be done. Sometimes we have to do something we don't like but it’s right for us.

One of the things I dived into is ginger. Not everyone likes ginger, I didn’t too but it is very good for digestion and inflammation.

Here are some herbal natural remedies for acid reflux that you can try.

• Ginger: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, ginger can help soothe the stomach and reduce acid production.

• Chamomile tea: Chamomile helps calm the digestive system and reduce acid reflux symptoms.

• Licorice root: Deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL) can promote mucus production, which protects the lining of the stomach and esophagus from acid damage.

Personally, I drink a ginger shot every morning on an empty stomach and it has been good. Of course, the first one was a bit disgusting but I have to endure.

I’ve created different ginger shot recipes and I drink around one shot glass every morning and it helps with acid reflux, about 30-50ml is the recommended amount.

6. Chew Gum

Another natural remedy for acid reflux is chewing sugar-free gum after meals. Doing this can stimulate saliva production, which helps wash acid out of the esophagus.

During my acid reflux attack, I had a jar full of chewing gum but they’re not sugar-free so I just gave it away.

7. Avoid Trigger Foods

Of course, the greatest natural remedy for acid reflux is Identifying and eliminating foods that trigger acid reflux symptoms. This can help you manage symptoms of acid reflux. Keeping a food diary can help track potential culprits.

Foods that can trigger acid reflux are spicy food, acidic food, caffeine, alcohol, and even sour vegetables like tomatoes.

Medical Treatment Options

For those who experience frequent or severe acid reflux, medical interventions may be necessary.

Like me, I had to consult a doctor as early as I could because I felt like I was not managing it anymore and since I was overthinking about my palpitations (which are not palpitations, thankfully).

My physician said that it was good that I came in early, I told her that I have been a firm believer in ‘prevention is better than cure’.

To elevate acid reflux symptoms, she gave me prescriptions like antacids and Proton Pump Inhibitors. Some options include:

1. Antacids

Over-the-counter antacids neutralize stomach acid and provide fast-acting relief. However, they do not treat the underlying cause of reflux. I was given a prescription for a Gaviscon that I must take when needed.

Thankfully, out of the 10 I only consumed 3 during the first few days after the check up because I immediately changed my routines and food intake.

2. H2 Blockers

These medications reduce the production of stomach acid, offering longer-lasting relief than antacids. Common examples include ranitidine and famotidine.

H2 Blockers are often taken during the first meal of the day, sometimes twice a day before breakfast and dinner. It takes 30-90 minutes for the medicine to work and will last for several hours.

3. Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs)

PPIs, such as omeprazole, are more potent than H2 blockers and reduce acid production more effectively. I was prescribed this kind of medication for 10 days only and taken before eating dinner.

Long-term use should be monitored by a healthcare provider due to potential side effects, such as nutrient deficiencies or an increased risk of bone fractures.

4. Surgical Options

In cases where lifestyle changes and medications do not effectively manage symptoms, surgery may be recommended. Nissen fundoplication is a procedure that strengthens the LES by wrapping the top of the stomach around the lower esophagus.

Lifestyle Tips for Preventing Acid Reflux

Prevention is often the best treatment for acid reflux. Incorporating simple lifestyle adjustments can help reduce the frequency and intensity of symptoms. These are some things you can do to prevent acid reflux.

1. Sleep on an incline. 

Sleeping position is also vital and considered one of the best natural remedies for acid reflux. Elevate the head of your bed by about 6-8 inches to keep acid from flowing back into the esophagus while you sleep.

The best sleeping position when you have acid reflux is on your left side in an inclined position. There's a pillow for people who are having acid reflux or GERD.

2. Wear loose-fitting clothes 

Avoid tight clothing around the abdomen that can squeeze the stomach and trigger reflux. Let your stomach breathe and wear loose clothes.

3. Quit smoking 

Smokers are prone to acid reflux because smoking weakens the LES and increases the risk of acid reflux.

4. Manage stress 

Chronic stress can exacerbate acid reflux. Practices like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises may help manage stress levels.

When to See a Doctor

While occasional acid reflux is normal, frequent or severe symptoms may indicate a more serious condition. Consult a healthcare provider if:

• Symptoms occur more than twice a week.
• Over-the-counter medications do not provide relief.
• You experience difficulty swallowing or unexplained weight loss.
• There is persistent nausea or vomiting.
• There is a chronic cough or hoarseness unrelated to a cold.

FAQ About Acid Reflux

Can Acid Reflux cause back pain?

Acid reflux can indeed cause back pain, especially if it irritates the nerves that lead to the spine. Back pain isn't a common issue, but severe heartburn can spread to the upper back.

If you have severe or ongoing back pain, you should see a doctor because it could be a sign of another sickness.

I personally experience back pain. That's why I went to a doctor to have it checked, my worry was I might have contracted a respiratory illness. Thankfully, it’s cleared.

Can Acid Reflux cause shortness of breath?

Yes, acid reflux can make it hard to breathe, especially if it gets into the throat or lungs and irritates the airways. People often think they have asthma or another breathing problem when they have signs like wheezing or a tight feeling in their chest.

While I was waiting in line for my check-up, I was making a mental list of concerns I wanted to ask, and that included my shortness of breath. Since I have back pain and shortness of breath, I really thought that I had developed a respiratory illness.

I even asked the doctor to check and listen to my back two times just to make sure there were no abnormal findings. I even confirmed since I feel like I have a phlegm but I don’t have a runny nose.

It turns out that our body activates slim and phlegm-like to protect our body from the acid when it becomes too much.

Can Acid Reflux cause dizziness?

Acid reflux doesn't usually make people dizzy, but it can happen if the reflux is serious enough to cause esophageal spasms, hyperventilation, or anxiety because of the pain. If you feel dizzy for a long time, you should see a doctor to rule out other problems.

Will acid reflux go away?

If you avoid things that cause acid reflux, eat smaller meals, and keep your weight in a healthy range, you may not have acid reflux as often. Chronic acid reflux (GERD), on the other hand, may need long-term care, such as medicine or medical treatments, and usually doesn't go away on its own.

Is acid reflux dangerous?

If you don't treat acid reflux, it can get worse and cause problems like esophagitis (esophageal inflammation), Barrett's esophagus (a disease that can lead to cancer), or even esophageal cancer. To avoid these risks, you should take care of signs that come up often.

What medications and remedies for acid reflux are good for pregnant women?

Antacids are usually thought to be safe and effective for pregnant women who have acid reflux. Making changes to your lifestyle, like eating smaller meals, staying away from foods that make you feel bad, and sleeping with your head raised can also help.

Women who are pregnant should talk to their doctor before taking any drugs, such as H2 blockers or proton pump inhibitors.