What Is Stomach Acid?

Those who suffer from stomach acid problems will vouch for the feelings of discomfort and pain caused by stomach acid symptoms. For some people, stomach acid symptoms are absolutely terrifying! One of the stomach acid symptoms is heartburn, and many sufferers mistake this indication of excess stomach acid as a sign of a heart attack. In that moment of panic you might mistake the difficulty in breathing, racing heart and restricted chest as signs of a heart attack, but remember that if it was a heart attack then you would also experience nausea, excessive sweating, dizziness, searing pain through the left arm, shoulder, neck and jaw, and shortness of breath. However, do seek emergency medical help if you are unsure of whether stomach acid is the real culprit or whether your condition is a lot more fatal than that.

Stomach Acid: Symptoms

Do not dismiss stomach acid symptoms just because acid reflux is a relatively common problem that rarely proves to be fatal or severe. Stomach acid symptoms are unpleasant and uncomfortable. The good news is that they can be controlled simply by making a few lifestyle changes. We will discuss the stomach acid triggers shortly so that you are well aware of how to keep that stomach acid under control! The major stomach acid symptoms are as follows:

1. One of the common stomach acid symptoms is regurgitation, in which individuals experience a bitter or sour taste (of acid) in the mouth or back of the throat. 
2. Wet burp
3. Acid indigestion or heart burn which results in searing pain originating from the abdomen up to the chest and sometimes even the throat.
4. Dyspepsia which is characterized by post-eating nausea, burping, pain and discomfort in the upper abdomen, and bloating.
5. Feeling overly full after a meal.

Stomach Acid: Triggers

Being aware of the triggers of stomach acid will make it easier for you to mange and reduce the symptoms of stomach acid! The following triggers are known to trigger stomach acid symptoms:

1. Eating close to your bed time.
2. Eating late at night.
3. Consuming a heavy meal.
4. Lying down or bending right after eating food.
5. Smoking may contribute to exacerbating stomach acid symptoms.
6. Being overweight or obese increases the risk of suffering from stomach acid symptoms.
7. Certain foods are known to be stomach acid trigger foods. These include: chocolate, citrus fruits, alcohol, garlic, onions, tomatoes, peppermint, spicy foods, fatty foods, fried foods, coffee, tea, and mint. Avoid these foods as much as possible, or consume controlled portions to minimize the after effects of these food items on stomach acid.