Are you one of 60 million US adults that experience heartburn symptoms daily or monthly? Do you find that over the counter products aren’t helping? You feel like the doctors don’t know what is going on? Try Hand Reflexology for relief!
What is Acid Reflux?
Acid reflux occurs when the stomach contents, including stomach acid, flow backward into the esophagus. Typically, a muscular valve called the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) prevents this backward flow. However, if the LES weakens or relaxes abnormally, it allows stomach acid to back up into the esophagus, leading to the symptoms of acid reflux.
What is Heartburn?
Heartburn is the most common symptom of acid reflux. It is a burning sensation in the chest, often behind the breastbone. The discomfort can sometimes radiate to the throat, neck, and jaw. Other symptoms may include:
- A sour or bitter taste in the mouth.
- Regurgitation of stomach acid or food.
- A feeling of a lump in the throat.
Heartburn and Acid Reflux Statistics
Heartburn and acid reflux are prevalent in the United States, affecting adults and children.
- Adults: According to the American College of Gastroenterology, approximately 60 million adults in the United States experience heartburn symptoms at least once a month, and about 15 million adults experience heartburn daily.
- Children: Acid reflux and heartburn can also affect children, although the prevalence is lower than in adults. The exact number of children with these conditions can be challenging due to varying definitions and diagnostic criteria. However, estimates suggest that around 5% to 8% of children experience acid reflux symptoms.
How Much is Spent on Heartburn and Acid Reflux Remedies
According to the Consumer Healthcare Products Association (CHPA), which represents the makers of OTC medicines, in 2019, Americans spent over $9.6 billion on OTC gastrointestinal products, including heartburn and acid reflux remedies. This figure includes various OTC medications, such as antacids, proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), and H2 blockers commonly used to treat these conditions.
Heartburn and acid reflux are common reasons for seeking ambulatory care, and many individuals visit healthcare providers such as primary care physicians, gastroenterologists, or specialized clinics to address these conditions. Ambulatory care for heartburn and acid reflux typically involves evaluating, diagnosing, and managing the symptoms.
Causes of acid Reflux and Heartburn
Factors can contribute causing of acid reflux and heartburn, including:
- Diet: Certain foods and beverages, such as spicy or fatty foods, citrus fruits, tomatoes, onions, garlic, chocolate, coffee, and alcohol, can trigger acid reflux.
- Obesity: Excess weight can put pressure on the stomach, leading to a higher likelihood of acid reflux.
- Pregnancy: Hormonal changes and abdominal pressure during pregnancy can cause acid reflux.
- Hiatal hernia: Hiatal Hernia can occur when a portion of the stomach protrudes through the diaphragm, weakening the LES and increasing the risk of acid reflux.
- Smoking: Smoking weakens the LES and impairs the production of saliva, which helps neutralize stomach acid.
- Medications: Certain medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), aspirin, and some blood pressure medications, can contribute to acid reflux.
What You Can do Today to Relieve Heartburn and Acid Reflux Today
Treatment for heartburn and acid reflux typically involves lifestyle modifications and medications. Lifestyle changes may include avoiding trigger foods, eating smaller meals, maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding lying down immediately after meals, and elevating the head of the bed while sleeping.
Over-the-counter antacids or acid reducers can provide temporary relief. In more severe cases, prescription medications or surgical interventions may be necessary.
Alternative Healing – Try Hand Reflexology to Relieve Acid Reflux and Heartburn
Healing Power of Reflexology
Reflexology is a science and an art—Reflex points on the feet, hands, and ears represent the body in miniature. The nerve pathways in each foot create an electrochemical flow that communicates with the central nervous system to encourage the body to relax and release toxins. The principle of Reflexology is that all reflex points, meridian pathways, and chakra regions are connected to specific organs, glands, and body functions. Reflexology promotes the elimination of stress and reinforces the body’s ability to stay healthy and vital. This preventative modality encourages wellness through relaxation and supports all body functions.
Reflexology Disclaimer: Reflexology does not replace traditional medicine. (Please check with your doctor if you have any concerns.) Reflexology can help achieve good health. However, you still have to do your part by maintaining good health through a healthy diet, exercising, recognizing your stress triggers, and minimizing or eliminating destructive behaviors.
About the Reflexologist, Writer, and Course Creator
Helen Chin Lui is a Certified Reflexologist, Certified Energy Medicine Practitioner, Reiki Master, and teacher. She is the owner of the Healing Place LLC and HealingPlaceEnergySchool.com
Healing Place LLC
Healing Place LLC specializes in helping people of all ages break the pain cycles of chronic pain, chronic digestive problems and balances hormones naturally. If you would like to learn how Reflexology can support your health, please schedule a FREE consultation on the HealingPlaceMedfield.com website or call 508.359.6463.
Healing Place Energy School LLC
Want to learn how to better care for yourself and your loved one with holistic medicine? Become a member of the HealingPlaceEnergySchool.com. We offer courses self-care courses: Energy Medicine, Mindful, Reflexology, Meditations, and Self-Awareness. All courses are taken from the privacy of your home. These are empowering self-care and self-help classes that teach lifelong skills.
HealingPlaceEnergySchool Store
Purchase either a pair of foot or ear reflexology model
Recent Comments