HYPERACIDITY AND HOMEOPATHY

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 tendencyto coat other foods and slow down the digestive process.This causes the stomach to supply more digestive juices, including acid. Thisdisproportionate secretion ofacid 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 & 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, steroidsor some other anti-inflammatory drugs.
  • Alcohol abuse and heavy smoking.
  • Also can occur after any surgery.
  • Is also 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 & 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:

Conventional treatment consists of antacids which have only a temporary effectand can also cause a lot of side effects like headache, dryness, hypersensitivity and confusion. On the other hand, Homeopathic treatment is safe and gentle, without side-effects. Homoeopathy medicines are prescribed on the basis of presenting complaints along with physical, emotional, and genetic make up that individualizes a person. This constitutional approach surrounding mind and body works at the root-level. Hurry and Worry that are the pedestals of this disease are associated to one’s nature and tendency, which can be challenged by a constitutional or individualized Homoeopathic treatment. Homoeopathy is very effective in managing all the acute symptoms of hyperacidity and also plays an important role in preventing relapse of the condition. Another outstanding thing about Homeopathy is that people on multiple medications can safely take Homeopathic medicines. Homeopathic drugs are non-habit forming and have no addictive characteristics. Homeopathy has an exceptional proven safety record with the FDA with 200 years of clinical effectiveness.

Since it treats in totality, it leads to a permanent long-lasting cure, rather than a temporary suppression of symptoms, and you will be able to enjoy all kinds of food to the fullest. So, food lovers, you won't have to think anymore before eating.

Some of the commonly used Homeopathic remedies that can help bring hyperacidity symptoms under control are:

Homeopathic remedies:

  • Iris Vers.:works well for persons having sour and bitter belching, and acidity causing sick headaches.
  • Nux Vomica:for persons having gastric derangement due to sedentary habits or over-eating, causing nausea and sour taste in mouth in the morning with bitter eructation.Flatulent distension of abdomen and spasmodic pain with upward pressure causing shortness of breath. Stomach is very sensitive. Sensation of weight in the stomach.
  • Natrum Phos: is made from sodium phosphate and is an excellent mineral for digestion. Especially suited to young children who have been fed too much sugar; and develop sour vomiting; greenish, sour,foul smelling diarrhea, with a creamy white coating at the back of the tongue. Used for upset stomach and sleeplessness due to indigestion.
  • Carbo Veg.: is best suited to patients with a slow and imperfect digestion, very offensive flatulence in upper part of the abdomen, and the patient feels better after discharge of gas or eructation.
  • Robinia:works well for acidity with frontal headache. Burning pains in stomach. Stools and discharges smell sour. Acid vomiting. Mainly used for acidity in children.

The above mentioned remedies are just a few of the commonly used Homeopathic remedies and are mentioned only to create awareness about the effectiveness of Homeopathic medicines in hyperacidity. It is not advisable to resort to self-medication for any disease.

Hence, Homoeopathic treatment is very strongly recommended for hyperacidity as it manages hyperacidity very effectively, gently, and safely.

These are some self measures which can be followed along with your treatment to prevent hyperacidity:

Self help:

  • 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 daily recommended.
  • Meals should be of 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.

About the author:

Neepa Sevak is an experienced, registered Homeopath with the Arizona Homeopathic Board of Medical Examiners. She is currently practicing at the Desert Institute of Classical Homeopathy. Her mission is to“Promote Health through Homeopathy with a Holistic, Totalistic, and Individualistic approach”.

Phone: (480) 363 0758

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