Heartburn is a health problem that affects many people. In this disorder, the stomach acid becomes too acidic and regurgitate or back up to the esophagus. The rising of the stomach acid causes this uncomfortable feeling in the chest area hence it is called heartburn. Ironically, the heart has nothing to do with this disorder. It is a common misconception that ought to be corrected because some people mistakenly think that they have problems in the heart when they hear a diagnosis of heartburn.
The standard medical or pharmacological treatment for heartburn is antacids or anti acid drugs. However, there are many instances wherein you simply cannot rely on pharmacological treatment for the condition. For example, pregnant women experiencing heartburn are advised against drinking antacids because these may potentially damage the growing fetus. What then are the heartburn home remedies that you can use without needing medications?
Simple Home Remedies for Heartburn
1. Sleep on your left side – The stomach is anatomically located at the left side of the abdomen. The contour of the abdomen follows this shape so sleeping on your left side will contain the acid in the stomach. This prevents the stomach acid from rising to the abdomen and causing the condition known as heartburn. This is a simple prevention measure that could do a lot to prevent heartburn from occurring and getting worse.
2. Sleep with head propped on one or two pillows – By elevating the abdomen portion, you aid in controlling acid from rising to the esophagus. This prevents the stomach acid from creating symptoms of heartburn.
3. Frequent meals – The stomach produces acid to digest our food. However, when we eat meals at an irregular basis or when we skip meals, the stomach produces more acid than usual. This causes an increase in the stomach acidity and higher possibility for acid reflux or heartburn.
4. Drink a glass of milk, preferably chilled not warm – This is a relief measure that can relieve the symptoms of heartburn even without medical or pharmacological interventions.
Knowing these simple heartburn home treatment strategies makes you more prepared whenever heartburn conditions cause discomfort to you or to other people.
