Acid reflux occurs because of acid from the stomach up into the esophagus up into the stomach. This is caused after a valve in the stomach’s upper section does not close correctly, resulting in the acid’s movement up the esophagus. One of the acid reflux symptoms is the presence of discomfort in the chest.

A research study from the American College of Gastroenterology has shown that more than sixty million people experience acid reflux in their bodies. Also, the western people are the ones who are most affected with the disease having an estimated population of 25 percent having the disease. If chronic heartburn is not treated immediately, it may result in serious problems, leading to death. Some foods, when used, can also result in the disease. Some of the likely significant acid reflux factors are alcohol, eating lots of meals, caffeine, and a diet with low fiber. Many ways can be used to treat acid reflux. However, the most common method you can use and get an effective result is making lifestyle changes and over-the-counter drugs, such as:

1. Quit smoking
Many types of research and studies have been done; it has shown that smokers are at the risk of having acid reflux. Also, smokers have been linked to having diseases resulting from acid reflux, such as throat cancer and Barrett’s Esophagus.

2. Sleep on an incline
Sleeping on an incline makes it difficult for the stomach acid to move up the esophagus because of its positioning since the esophagus has been appropriately positioned. When reflux occurs, forces of gravity will return the food into the stomach.

3. Don’t drink carbonated beverages
Taking carbonated drinks usually triggers acid in the stomach, resulting in the acid up the esophagus, causing reflux. To prevent the formation of reflux, you should avoid taking carbonated drinks.

4. Avoid Spicy foods
Spicy foods are significant causes of reflux. Controlling the intake of spicy food can be a perfect remedy in preventing acid reflux.

5. Take antacids
Antacids are the best OTC drugs that are usually used in controlling acidity in the stomach. They help to neutralize the presence of an edge in the stomach controlling any reflux. These over the counter drugs can help neutralize the presence of the acid in the stomach. OTC used in neutralizing the acids is referred to as antacids. Many brands produce the antacids and at the same time provide the results required.

Acid reflux disease can be felt by anyone, whether it is a child or an adult. Lifestyle changes can be a perfect remedy for treating acid reflux. A patient with a record of continually having the disease, may have GERD, or Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease, and should speak to a doctor. However, in the meantime, introducing a few lifestyle changes, as mentioned above, can help to relieve symptoms. A hiatal hernia can result in long term acid reflux, which causes the tissues of the throat and diaphragm to weaken, allowing stomach acids to move upwards into the esophagus, thus causing reflux. Other contributing factors that can lead to acid reflux are obesity, medications such as those used for treating asthma, and smoking.