Acid reflux, also known as heartburn, is the result of the lower esophageal sphincter not closing at all or closing improperly, allowing acid produced by the stomach to rise up into the esophagus. Common causes of acid reflux include: the presence of a hiatal hernia, being overweight, and unhealthy eating habits. Common symptoms experienced during acid reflux include: a bloated feeling, belching, nausea, and dysphagia, or narrowing of the esophagus. Acid reflux can be treated with lifestyle changes, such as adopting a healthier eating style and making healthy food choices. This acupuncture is also known to provide relief and attack the root cause of acid reflux.
Root Cause Treatment
People who suffer from GERD often have indigestion along with symptoms like acid regurgitation and frequent belching. The drugs offer some symptomatic relief, but over time, symptoms may worsen or the patient may experience side effects such as headaches and muscle cramps. Treating the root cause is the only way to rid the patient of this problem. If left untreated, it can increase the risk of esophageal cancer, Barrett’s esophagus, or chronic cough. The increasing presence of this disease in the population has led to intense research to find the definitive causes of its occurrence, as well as possible alternative treatments, including acupuncture for acid reflux.
Conditions that cause
The presence of a hiatal hernia causes acid to leak into the esophagus as a result of the upper part of the stomach protruding above the diaphragm. Furthermore, food malabsorption is also known to be a factor in acid reflux. As a result of this, pressure builds up in the stomach, which causes the opening of the sphincter between the esophagus and the stomach. Aging is another factor that causes acid reflux. Aging also causes a decrease in stomach acid production, which leads to less efficient digestion. Unhealthy eating habits, such as snacking or eating large or spicy foods close to bedtime, do not allow food to digest properly and also put pressure on the diaphragm. While medications help alleviate the immediate effects of acid reflux, they can also cause vitamin and mineral malabsorption. Also, long-term use of antacids can cause anxiety, panic attacks, heart problems, and neuropathy.
acupuncture treatment
Acupuncture focuses on the roles of the pancreas, gallbladder, spleen, and liver in digesting food. A disruption in the function of any of these organs can cause acid reflux and other digestive problems. Acupuncture uses fine needles to stimulate these acupuncture points to help restore normal function to the digestive system. Acupuncture can also help tone the sphincter muscles between the stomach and the esophagus. As a result of the treatment, you will be able to digest food with normal stomach and bowel movements. Since emotional distress can also alter the digestive pattern, the acupuncturist also formulates a therapy program that helps the patient reduce stress and strengthen her digestive function.