Common Symptoms of Acid Reflux

By Li Zheng

Acid reflux, also known as heartburn, is the result of the lower esophageal sphincter either not closing at all or closing inadequately and allowing the acid produced by the stomach to go up into the esophagus. Common causes of acid reflux include: the presence of a hiatal hernia, being overweight, and having unhealthy eating habits. The common symptoms experienced during acid reflux include: a sensation of bloating, burping, nausea, and dysphagia or narrowing of the esophagus. Acid reflux can be treated with lifestyle changes such as adopting a more healthy style of eating as well as healthy choice of foods. This acupuncture is also known to provide relief and target at the root cause of acid reflux.

Treatment of the Root Cause

People suffering from GERD often have indigestion along with symptoms such as acid regurgitation and frequent burping. Medications offer some symptomatic relief, but over a period of time, it may worsen symptoms or the patient may suffer side effects such as headaches and muscle cramps. Treating the root cause is the only way to rid the patient of this problem. Failure to treat it can lead to an increased risk of esophageal cancer, Barrett's esophagus, or chronic coughing. The increasing presence of this disease in the population has led to intensive research to find definite causes for its appearance as well as possible alternative treatments including acid reflux acupuncture.

Conditions That Cause

The presence of a hiatal hernia causes acid to escape into the esophagus as a result of the upper part of the stomach protruding over the diaphragm. Additionally, malabsorption of food is also known to be a factor of acid reflux. As a result of this, there is build-up of stomach pressure, which causes the opening of the sphincter between the esophagus and stomach. Aging is another factor that causes acid reflux. Aging also causes a decrease in the production of stomach acid which leads to less efficient digestion. Unhealthy food habits such as snacking or eating big or spicy meals close to bedtime does not allow the food to digest adequately and also exerts pressure on the diaphragm. While medications help to relieve the immediate effects of acid reflux, they can also cause malabsorption of vitamins and minerals. Furthermore, long term use of antacids can cause anxiety, panic attack, heart problems and neuropathy.

Treating with Acupuncture

Acupuncture focuses on the roles of the pancreas, gallbladder, spleen, and liver in the digestion of 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 the normal function of the digestive system. Acupuncture can also help tone the sphincter muscles between stomach and esophagus. As a result of treatment, you will be able digest food with normal movements of the stomach and intestine. Since emotional distress can also upset the digestive pattern, the acupuncturist also formulates a therapy program that helps the patient reduce stress and strengthen their digestive function.

Dr. Li Zheng, PhD is a licensed acupunturist & herbalist with a PhD in medical science. A graduate of the Beijing University of Chinese Medicine who practiced as a physician in China, she has 26 years of experience. In addition, she is also a professor and clinical supervisor of the New England School of Acupuncture, consultant for Health Grid Inc. and author of two books, "Acupuncture and Hormone Balance" and "Chinese Acupuncture and Herbs for Common Diseases". Her website is http://bostonchineseacupuncture.org/treatable-disorders-autoimmune/digestive-disorders/