Acidity, often referred to as acid reflux, happens due to the overproduction of stomach acid. This excess acid flows back up into the esophagus (food pipe), causing discomfort.
Understanding Stomach Acid Production
Our stomachs naturally produce acid (hydrochloric acid) to aid in digestion. This acid breaks down food, preparing it for absorption into the body. However, sometimes the stomach produces too much acid. This excess can then back up into the esophagus, leading to the burning sensation characteristic of acidity or heartburn.
Causes of Excess Stomach Acid Production
Several factors can contribute to excess stomach acid production:
- Diet: Spicy foods, fatty foods, chocolate, caffeine, and alcohol can all trigger increased acid production.
- Lifestyle: Smoking, being overweight or obese, and eating large meals close to bedtime can worsen acid reflux.
- Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as hiatal hernia (where a portion of the stomach pushes up through the diaphragm), can increase the likelihood of acid reflux.
- Medications: Some medications, such as NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), can irritate the stomach lining and contribute to acid production.
Symptoms of Acidity
The primary symptom of acidity is a burning sensation in the chest, often felt behind the breastbone. Other symptoms can include:
- Sour taste in the mouth
- Regurgitation of stomach acid
- Difficulty swallowing
- Chronic cough
Treatment and Management
Treatment for acidity often involves lifestyle changes and medication. This may include:
- Dietary modifications: Avoiding trigger foods.
- Weight management: Losing weight if overweight or obese.
- Lifestyle changes: Eating smaller, more frequent meals, elevating the head of the bed, quitting smoking.
- Medications: Antacids, H2 blockers, and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) can reduce stomach acid production.
The reference material states that acidity, or acid reflux, is caused by excessive production of acid by the stomach. This excess acid then flows back into the esophagus, resulting in pain and burning sensations.
