Acid Reflux During Pregnancy

Heartburn in pregnancy (acid reflux)

From heartburn often referred to as acid reflux refers to the reflux of acidic stomach contents into the esophagus. It feels like a burning pain behind the breastbone, which occurs especially after meals and lying down. Heartburn is the most common side effects of pregnancy. Approximately 75% of all pregnant women are struggling with it. The trigger for the annoying pregnancy heartburn is mainly the increasing pressure on the stomach in combination with an altered hormonal situation that weakens the sphincter between the esophagus and stomach. This allows acidic stomach contents move up.

The acidity of the esophagus decides

Pregnant women should be aware of the problem of heartburn switching to smaller meals and exciting on carbonic acid such as coffee or dispense. Sweet foods, and alcohol can weaken the function of the sphincter. Low in many cases, oatmeal, bread, hazelnuts and almonds. Still can not prevent heartburn often. Depending on the severity and frequency of use will be home remedies and general measures. If you have no success, have affected the doctor. The acidity can be in the lower part of the esophagus over a period of 24 hours to determine with a portable device. In this way you can measure the number and duration of acid Aufstoßens. Ultimately, the pressure in the sphincter of the esophagus to be measured using the so-called esophageal manometer. There are also several medications that reduce pressure on the lower esophageal sphincter.

Sodium - a new miracle cure for heartburn

Recently, sodium alginate is used. It is a substance which is obtained from deep sea algae. Upon contact with stomach acid sodium alginate forms in a short time an alginate pad, which floats on top of the stomach contents. If the contents of the stomach is pushed up, this cushion is prior to the esophagus access and prevents the reflux! Since sodium is excreted undigested and is completely safe for mother and child, this therapy can be recommended. Using this method will stop heartburn fast and reliable.

Conscious diet can relieve heartburn

Mild symptoms are often disposed of by simple measures: How should large, sharp, spicy and fatty food should be avoided. Especially the evening meal should fail as humble and not take too late. Some women also helps a glass of cold milk, sipped. To stimulate digestion, woman should take one to two glasses of water before meals. Even an upright sleeping position can alleviate the symptoms of heartburn, so many women use a pillow, or put up the headboard of the bed.

Posted in: During Pregnancy, Heartburn During Pregnancy