Acid indigestion, also known as heartburn, is a common digestive disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by a burning sensation in the chest or throat, caused by acid reflux from the stomach into the esophagus.

In this article, we will explore the causes of acid indigestion and provide effective treatment options to help you manage the symptoms.

Causes of Acid Indigestion

There are several factors that can contribute to acid indigestion:.

Poor Diet

A diet that is rich in fatty, oily, or spicy foods can irritate the stomach lining and lead to acid indigestion. It is important to avoid these types of foods, especially in the evening, as they can worsen symptoms at night.

Alcohol and Caffeine

Consuming alcohol or caffeine can also trigger acid indigestion by relaxing the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) muscle.

This muscle normally acts as a barrier to prevent stomach acid from flowing back into the esophagus, but when it is relaxed, acid reflux can occur.

Obesity

Being overweight or obese can increase the risk of acid indigestion by putting pressure on the stomach and LES. Losing weight can help reduce symptoms and improve overall digestive health.

Smoking

Smoking can weaken the LES and increase acid reflux, as well as lead to other digestive problems such as gastritis and ulcers.

Pregnancy

Pregnancy can also cause acid indigestion due to hormonal changes and pressure on the stomach from the growing fetus. This is a common symptom during the later stages of pregnancy and can be managed with lifestyle changes and medication.

How to Treat Acid Indigestion

If you are experiencing acid indigestion, there are several treatment options available:.

Lifestyle Changes

Simple lifestyle changes can be effective in reducing symptoms of acid indigestion. These include:.

Eating a healthy diet that is low in fat and spice
Avoiding alcohol and caffeine
Quitting smoking
Losing weight
Eating smaller, more frequent meals
Avoiding eating before bedtime
Sleeping with the head elevated

Medication

If lifestyle changes alone do not provide relief, medication may be necessary. The following types of medication are commonly used to treat acid indigestion:.

Antacids

Antacids are a type of medication that neutralize stomach acid. They provide quick relief from symptoms but do not address the underlying causes of acid indigestion.

H2 Blockers

H2 blockers (such as ranitidine or famotidine) reduce the amount of acid produced in the stomach, providing longer-lasting relief than antacids.

Proton Pump Inhibitors

Proton pump inhibitors (such as omeprazole or lansoprazole) block the production of acid in the stomach. They are effective in treating severe cases of acid indigestion and can provide long-term relief.

Surgery

In rare cases, surgery may be necessary to treat acid indigestion. This is usually reserved for severe cases that do not respond to other treatment options.