Acid indigestion
Acid Indigestion: What You Should Know
Acid indigestion occurs when stomach acid splashes backward into the esophagus, a condition also known as gastroesophageal reflux (GER). It's different from heartburn, although sometimes the terms acid indigestion and heartburn are used interchangeably. GER is rarely serious, but it can cause severe discomfort.
Symptoms of Acid Indigestion
Symptoms of acid indigestion can vary, depending on the degree of severity. However, some common symptoms include:
- A burning feeling in your throat and chest
- Stomach pain
- A sour taste in your mouth from stomach acid
- Bad breath
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss
Causes of Acid Indigestion
Acid indigestion can be caused by a variety of factors, including diet and lifestyle habits. Common causes include:
- Eating large meals or eating too quickly
- Eating foods high in acid, such as citrus fruits, tomatoes, peppers, onions, and garlic
- Drinking alcohol, carbonated beverages, or caffeinated beverages
- Smoking
- Being overweight or obese
- Eating certain medications
- Stress
Treatment of Acid Indigestion
Treatment for acid indigestion depends on the severity of your symptoms. Simple lifestyle changes may help reduce the symptoms of acid indigestion. These include quitting smoking, avoiding caffeine and alcohol, limiting fatty and spicy foods, and eating smaller meals. If lifestyle changes are not enough, your doctor may recommend medications or other treatments.