Difference between acid reflux, acidity and indigestionHow many times have you heard the words acidity, indigestion or acid reflux, and used them in the same tone, thinking they refer to the same health issue? Show
If you too confuse the terms and think they all mean the same, you’re not alone. While all of these terms do refer to health issues related to digestion and the stomach, there are some differences that can help you understand what you are experiencing. What is acid reflux and how to treat it? The sphincter muscle acts as a closing between the stomach and the oesophagus. It closes as soon as the food that you eat passes through the food pipe and into the stomach. In case the sphincter muscle is not able to close properly, or if it closes and opens again, the acid from the stomach can move up into the oesophagus. This condition is referred to as acid reflux. In case you experience acid reflux on a regular basis, it could also indicate a case of gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD. Symptoms of acid refluxinclude a burning pain in the chest or heartburn. You may also get a bitter taste in the mouth, which is because of the acid backing up in your mouth or throat. It can also cause bloating, black stools, burping, nausea, dry coughing or sore throat. This can help:
What is acidity and how to treat it? The term acidity is often used to refer to the condition of acid reflux, in which case the acid from the stomach moves up into the oesophagus. Symptoms of acidity include heartburn in the chest area, a burning sensation in the throat and in some cases, nausea and vomiting. This can help:
What is indigestion and how to treat it? Indigestion refers to a health condition where your stomach is not able to properly digest the food that you eat. Indigestion can happen if you often suffer from GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease), have ulcers, suffer from thyroid disease or are on medication. Symptoms of indigestion include discomfort in the stomach especially after a meal, burning sensation or pain in the upper part of the stomach, belching, acidic taste in the mouth, feeling bloated, nausea and vomiting. This can help:
In most of these cases, following these tips and taking an antacid can help to ease the symptoms. However, if the symptoms persist or get worse, immediately seek help from a doctor. Most people have indigestion (dyspepsia) at some point. Usually, it's not a sign of anything more serious and you can treat it yourself. Indigestion can be felt in different ways. You can have the following symptoms after eating or drinking: Stomach ache or back pain are usually not symptoms of indigestion. If you have those you might be
constipated. There's usually no need to see a GP about indigestion. There are some things you can do at home. cut down on tea, coffee, cola or alcohol raise your head and shoulders up when in bed – this can stop stomach
acid coming up while you sleep lose weight if you're overweight Don’t
A pharmacist can help with indigestionA pharmacist can recommend medicines to ease the burning feeling or pain that can come with indigestion. Medicines that help reduce acid in your stomach include:
Some indigestion medicines are best to take after eating as their effects last longer. Check the information leaflet that comes with the medicines for more information. Find a pharmacy Pregnant women: treating indigestionPregnant women often get indigestion. It's very common from 27 weeks onwards. It can be caused by hormonal changes and the growing baby pressing against the stomach. A pharmacist can help with uncomfortable feelings or pain. They can recommend the best medicines to use when you're pregnant. Non-urgent advice: See a GP if you:
These symptoms can be a sign of something more serious. What causes indigestionIndigestion is often caused by acid from your stomach irritating your stomach lining or throat. This is called acid reflux. This can be caused or made worse by:
Indigestion can also be caused by an open sore in your stomach lining (stomach ulcer). Less often, it can be a sign of something more serious such as stomach cancer. Page last reviewed: 21 May 2020 Is indigestion the same as acid reflux and heartburn?Indigestion is often caused by acid from your stomach irritating your stomach lining or throat. This is called acid reflux. This can be caused or made worse by: certain food and drink – such as coffee, tomatoes, alcohol, chocolate and fatty or spicy foods.
How do I know if I have indigestion?The main symptom of indigestion is pain or a feeling of discomfort in your upper abdomen (dyspepsia). People often experience the associated feeling of burning behind the breastbone (heartburn), but this may occur on its own.
What does acid indigestion feel like?A burning feeling in your chest that can last anywhere from a few minutes to a couple of hours. Pain in your chest when you bend over or lay down. A burning feeling in your throat. A hot, sour, acidic or salty taste in the back of your throat.
Is indigestion also acid reflux?It is common in adults. Indigestion is not the same as heartburn. It is not related to stomach acid. Heartburn is when stomach acid goes out of your stomach and back into your food pipe (esophagus).
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