Hyperacidity: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment & More

What is Hyperacidity?

The hydrochloric acid in our stomach is needed for the digestion and breakdown of food. When there is an increase in the secretion of hydrochloric acid by the cells in the lining of our stomach, it is known as hyperacidity. These increased acid levels can cause many hyperacidity symptoms.

Causes of Hyperacidity

Hydrochloric acid is constantly present in our bodies. Its secretion increases when there is food to be digested. Hyperacidity is a pathological increase of the acid level in our stomach. This can happen in cases of:

1) Some infection that causes the stomach to secrete more acid to destroy the bacteria or virus.

2) Inadequate food or infrequent meal timings, which cause the acid to be underutilized.

3) Certain genetic conditions where the stomach secretes more acid than required.

4) Stress of the mental and physical type.

5) Smoking

6) Increased intake of hot liquids and stimulants such as tea and coffee

7) Increased alcohol intake

8) Foods that upset the stomach and don’t suit the person, including those who are lactose intolerant or gluten intolerant.

Hyperacidity Symptoms

Although hyperacidity symptoms are predominantly associated with burning, there are other symptoms too. Some other hyperacidity symptoms are described below:

1) Burning in the heart and chest region, above the stomach.

2) A burning sensation may sometimes be felt in the throat

3) A sour or bitter taste in the mouth that lasts for a while.

4) Sometimes, the hyperacidity symptoms can cause chest pain.

5) Due to burning in the throat, there can be a dry cough.

6) Asthma is also known to be a hyperacidity symptom.

7) Chronic sinusitis due to acid reflux.

8) Ear pain due to sinusitis caused by the reflux.

Also Read: What is Acidity: Acidity Symptoms, Best Home Remedies & More

Hyperacidity Treatment

Hyperacidity treatment is available in all streams of medicine, from allopathy to Ayurveda and homeopathy. The primary treatment is targeted at decreasing acid production, and the secondary treatment is for soothing the inflamed parts and organs affected by hyperacidity. Before consulting a doctor, it can help to know some tips on how to reduce hyperacidity.

Here are some basic tips for hyperacidity treatment at home.

1) Take some simple measures for a healthy lifestyle

2) Have good food at regular intervals. Do not skip meals.

3) Avoid foods with high levels of salt, oil, and spice.

4) Have a proper, healthy diet.

5) Focus on your digestive system and target regular bowel movements.

6) Stay active. Exercise regularly and ensure your body stays active with regular walks.

7) Avoid heavy weightlifting or crunches as part of your exercise regimen.

For acute attacks of hyperacidity, consult a doctor.

Apart from these lifestyle changes, there are some things that can be effective for hyperacidity treatment at home.

Home Remedy for Hyperacidity

Some things are safe to consume as a home remedy for hyperacidity. These are some natural treatments for hyperacidity:

1. Cold milk

2. Bananas

3. Ginger

4. Mint leaves

5. Tulsi (Basil) leaves

6. Buttermilk

7. Coconut water

8. Almonds

9. Watermelon juice

If there is no relief with these, or if the problem reoccurs after a while, please consult a doctor.

Ayurvedic Treatment for Acidity

As per Ayurveda, hyperacidity is the increase of pitha in the body. The Ayurvedic treatment for acidity and gas includes taking some of the following substances or combinations of substances:

1. Cumin seeds or Jeera. Just half a spoon in water can relieve hyperacidity symptoms.

2. Mulethi (liquorice) mixed with honey is useful as an ayurvedic treatment for acidity and gas.

3. Indian gooseberry or amla as a fruit or juice is good for hyperacidity. Due to its antioxidant properties, it helps control the uneasiness experienced with hyperacidity.

4. Saunf or aniseed increases digestive properties and relieves hyperacidity.

5. A combination of cardamom, clove, and ginger makes for a useful Ayurvedic treatment for hyperacidity. Crushed together to make a paste, they help alleviate the reflux and increase digestion.