Hyperacidity, also commonly known as acid dyspepsia or acid reflux, is the condition in which the stomach produces excessive amount of stomach acid that causes discomfort, pain, and digestive issues. Acid Reflux- The term indicates the backflow of stomach acid into the esophagus- causing burning in chest and throat. GERD- Chronic form of acid reflux, where stomach acid frequently flows back into the esophagus, causing irritation and potentially leading to more serious health issues such as, Oesophagitis, Oesophageal stricture, Barrett’s Oesophagus, Dental Erosions, Laryngitis etc.
Causes/ Etiology of Hyperacidity/ Acid Reflux/ GERD:
• Causes of Hyperacidity: The human body produces more stomach acid, primarily hydrochloric acid, due to various factors that triggers increased acid production to aid digestion, but excessive amounts can lead to discomfort and health issues.
1. Improper dietary habits: Overeating, Large Meals, Late night Eating- they put extra pressure on stomach and trigger more acid production. Spicy, fatty, and acidic foods can irritate the stomach lining and stimulate acid production. Skipping meals leads to overly acidic stomach environment as there is no food to neutralize stomach acid already present in there. 2. Lifestyle Factors: Stress and Anxiety, Lack of Sleep, Smoking/ Tobacco chewing, Alcohol Consumption leads to increased acid production in stomach. 3. Certain medical conditions- such as GERD, H. Pylori infection, obesity, certain medicines such as some NSAIDS and some Antibiotics cause increased acid stimulation in stomach. 4. Some other factors- such as obesity, pregnancy and hiatus hernia increase the risk of Hyperacidity.
• Causes of GERD 1. Improper functioning of Lower Oesophageal Sphincter (the muscle ring at the bottom of the esophagus that usually opens to allow food into the stomach and then closes to prevent stomach acid from flowing back up). 2. Obesity- Excess weight, especially around abdomen puts pressure on stomach and increases the chances of acid reflux. 3. Pregnancy- Hormonal changes and the growing uterus can also increase pressure on the stomach. 4. Smoking- Nicotine weakens the Lower Oesophageal Sphincter and increase stomach acid production. 5. Certain foods and drinks- chocolate, caffeine, fatty foods, and spicy foods can relax the LES or increase stomach acid, triggering reflux. 6. Certain medicines- Some medications, including certain asthma and blood pressure medications, can contribute to GERD symptoms. 7. Hiatus Hernia- It occurs when the upper part of the stomach bulges through the diaphragm into the chest cavity, which can also contribute to GERD. 8. Stress and Nerve Sensitivity- In some individuals, stress and heightened nerve sensitivity in the esophagus can make them more susceptible to GERD symptoms.
What are the symptoms?
Chronic Headaches which include conditions like chronic migraine and chronic daily headaches, can manifest with various symptoms. Common symptoms include
Hyperacidity: Heartburn, upper abdominal pain, nausea, bloating, and a sour taste in the mouth.
Acid Reflux: Symptoms Often includes heartburn (a burning sensation in the chest), regurgitation (sour or bitter liquid coming up), and a bitter or sour taste in the mouth.
GERD: Symptoms include heartburn, regurgitation, difficulty swallowing, chronic cough, and chest pain.
Hyperacidity: Excessive burping and belching from gas buildup.
How Homeopathy Helps?
 Anti-inflammatory action – Reduces chronic inflammation in the stomach and esophagus, a key contributor to acid reflux.
 Supports sphincter control & gut motility – Helps regulate the esophageal sphincter and improve digestive movement.
 Anxiolytic effect – Calms the mind, reducing stress-induced acid reflux.
 Antispasmodic properties – Relaxes smooth muscles of the GI tract, easing spasms and cramping.
 Soothing action – Maintains a protective layer on the stomach lining, shielding it from excess acid.
 Stress relief – Helps prevent stress-related reflux episodes.
 Improves digestion – Reduces gas formation, indirectly decreasing reflux symptoms.
Lifestyle changes for Management of Hyperacidity/ GERD:
Eat Smart: Small and Frequent Meals, avoid trigger foods (spicy, fried, citrus, chocolate, caffeine, alcohol and carbonated drinks). Avoid lying down posture/ sleep immediately after eating (for at least 2-3 hrs).
Maintain healthy habits: Sleep with elevated head (at least 6-8 inches) to prevent acid reflux at night. Maintain healthy weight because excess belly fat increases pressure on stomach. Avoid tight clothing around waist, it increases pressure on stomach.
Manage Stress: by doing yoga, meditation, deep breathing and pranayama. Get adequate sleep to support digestion and maintain hormonal harmony.
Improve daily routine: Eat slowly and chew well to reduce load to stomach, avoid smoking, reduce alcohol consumption, stay hydrated, avoid excessive water intake during meals.
Physical Activity: Engage in regular moderate exercise, walking or yoga (avoid vigorous exercise immediately after meals).
