Hyperacidity is defined as an excess secretion of hydrochloric acid in the stomach, causing acidity of the gastrointestinal tract, producing a burning sensation. In order to understand the cause of this, it is essential to know that the stomach produces numerous juices that are necessary for digestion. One of them is a dilute form of hydrochloric acid, which is required to break down complex foods such as proteins. Foods that are not properly absorbed in the stomach have a tendency to coat other foods and slow down the digestive process. This causes the stomach to supply more digestive juices, including acid. This disproportionate secretion of acid dominates the defenses and as a result leads to a decline in the protective forces of the mucosal layer of the stomach. Hyperacidity eventually damages the inner lining of the stomach and leads to what is medically known as gastritis, formation of ulcers in the stomach, and later perforation. This condition has become widespread with today’s stressful and modernized life and is more commonly seen in middle aged and elderly people.
Causes of Hyperacidity
- Irregular dietary habits
- Rich, spicy and fried foods, badly cooked food, cold food
- Fast foods, red meat, onions and garlic
- Caffeinated drinks
- Stress and anxiety
- Negative emotions – eating while angry or upset can produce gastric hyperacidity.
- Insomnia (lack of sleep)
- Loss of appetite or overeating or eating too fast without proper chewing
- Prolonged intake of aspirin, steroids or some other anti-inflammatory drugs.
- Alcohol abuse and heavy smoking
- Can also occur after any surgery
- Commonly encountered in pregnancy due to normal hormonal changes and pressure of the uterus on the stomach
- Infection of the stomach from bacteria known as Helicobacter pylori is also a common cause of hyperacidity.
Symptoms of hyperacidity
- Heartburn
- Sour belching
- Flatulence
- Stomach cramps immediately following a large or spicy meal or aspirin ingestion
- Nausea and vomiting
- Bitter or sour taste in mouth
- A sense of abdominal distension or bloating
- Vomiting of blood or blood in stools
Homeopathic approach to hyperacidity
- Avoid fatty, fried, spicy foods, red meat, onions and garlic
- Avoid caffeinated drinks
- Avoid alcohol consumption and smoking
- Avoid tension
- Avoid unnecessary medication
- Brisk walking exercise
- Weight reduction
- Herbs like mint, liquorice, coriander, cardamom and turmeric are very cooling and proven to be healing agents for heartburn
- A balanced diet tending toward alkaline producing foods like fruits and vegetables
- With the exception of milk, the patient does better on a dry diet
- Plenty of fresh water, 6-8 glasses recommended daily
- Meals should be small volume
- No snacks must be taken after evening meal to prevent nocturnal regurgitation
- Heavy stooping or bending at the waist should be avoided especially after meals.
