If not effectively treated, acid reflux can turn into chronic cases of GERD. The symptoms of GERD include heartburn which can cause lower back pain. The pain in your chest and throat can radiate to your lower back.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are commonly used to help alleviate pain and stiffness associated with back pain. Some common NSAIDs include aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen.
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease
Stomach acids, fluids, or even food particles can travel from the stomach back up the esophagus to the throat. This irritates the lining of the throat, contributing to a sore throat, uncomfortable swelling, and even neck pain.
Yes, it's called referred pain. The body doesn't normally receive distress signals from the organs so it fires out pain signals to a nearby area with more nerve endings, such as the muscles in your upper back.
If you think your back pain is caused by acid reflux, you may have any or all the following symptoms: Lower back pain: a soreness in your spine after eating a large meal. Heartburn: a burning pain that can travel from your stomach to your lower abdomen and up to your chest.
Because of the intensity of heartburn associated with GERD, pain may radiate from the referred area of the esophagus to your lower back.
Water. In general, drinking water can help balance the pH of a particularly acidic meal, which may help to lower the risk of acid reflux. Studies show that drinking mineral water with a high hydrogen carbonate content can help to alleviate the frequency and severity of acid reflux.
Yogurt that is not too sour is also excellent for acid reflux, because of the probiotics that help normalize bowel function. Yogurt also provides protein, and soothes stomach discomfort, often providing a cooling sensation. It is easy to choose foods by looking them up to see how acidic they are.
2. Bananas. This low-acid fruit can help neutralize stomach acid by coating an irritated esophageal lining. And not only are bananas alkaline, they're also rich in pectin — a soluble fiber that helps keeps food flowing nicely through the digestive tract.
Carbonated Beverages
Soft drinks not only relax the LES but also increase stomach acid levels. This may be due to the caffeine in popular cola products which can affect the LES and trigger acid reflux.
Noncitric fruits such as melons, apples, pears, and bananas are less likely to trigger reflux symptoms. Bananas are especially good for neutralizing stomach acids because they are high in potassium and low in pH (acidity).
Acid reflux is an uncomfortable condition that often leads to belching and heartburn. Drinking lemon water is a potentially helpful remedy to reduce symptoms. Always drink it diluted and pay attention to the body's reaction.
Heartburn is generally a treatable problem. Most of the time, people can manage their symptoms with lifestyle and diet modification. Also, over-the-counter medications can help reduce symptoms. Some people need stronger treatment or even surgical procedures to overcome chronic heartburn.
If you have reflux, medicine that reduces the stomach acid helps your body heal. It might take 1 to 3 weeks to heal.
Many people who have heartburn are bothered by hot spices — black and crushed red pepper, chili powder, Tabasco sauce. Likewise, fresh garlic and onions are known to cause heartburn for some, though you may be able to substitute dehydrated or dried versions (garlic powder and dried onions).
One member of their team saw relief from his heartburn symptoms after consuming five milliliters (about one teaspoon) of plain honey. If you don't want to take one teaspoon of honey by itself, you can mix it with a glass of warm water or tea.
A person with acid reflux should avoid foods containing refined grains, including white bread, as these products contain very little fiber. There are many different types of whole grain bread a person can choose from.
Whole grains — High fiber, whole-grains like brown rice, oatmeal, and whole grain breads help stop symptoms of acid reflux. They are a good source of fiber and may help absorb stomach acid. Lean protein — Low-fat, lean sources of protein also reduce symptoms.
You may not eat, exercise, or take medications according to your regular schedule. This disruption can trigger heartburn.
Foods to Eat on an Acid Reflux Diet
Noncitrus fruits: Apples, bananas, blueberries, and strawberries are safe bets.
Milk and dairy products are high in fat and tend to make heartburn worse. When you have frequent GERD symptoms, like heartburn, eating high-fat dairy products like cheese can aggravate your symptoms. Furthermore, cold dairy products like ice cream can actually numb and inhibit the lower esophageal sphincter's function.