Heartburn is a symptom of Gastroesophageal reflux disease, commonly referred to as GERD, or acid reflux. GERD is a medical condition in which the liquid content of the stomach regurgitates (refluxes) into the oesophagus.
The stomach liquid can inflame and damage the oesophagus lining, although visible signs of inflammation occur in a minority of patients. The lower end of the oesophagus remains closed, preventing stomach acidic fluid from backing up into the oesophagus. Heartburn, the burning sensation radiates from the mid to upper chest, is caused by the oesophagus not functioning properly.
Symptoms of acid reflux, in addition to heartburn, may include, asthma, wheezing, mucus production, cough, chronic bronchitis, nausea, sore throat, voice change, hoarseness, throat irritation and globus sensation in the throat. Dietary habits, such as overeating, and consumption of caffeine, tomatoes, acidic fruit juices, fatty and spicy foods, and chocolate can cause heartburn as well as a stressful lifestyle. Though it is advisable to find the foods you are sensitive to by having food sensitivity testing, which can help a great deal, more information;- https://www.southwellacupuncture.co.uk/wellbeing/
According to the World Health Organization and the National Institutes for Health, say acupuncture, are useful in the natural treatment for acid reflux and many other digestive disorders, including food allergies, gastritis, ulcers, irritable bowel, and colitis.
Western medicine views GERD as having a primary cause, but each person is different therefore traditional five element acupuncture has many different, each individual is treated to their needs. From the acupuncture perspective, the gallbladder, pancreas, liver, and spleen work to aid the stomach’s digestion. When these organs function improperly the digestive system becomes imbalanced and acid reflux and heartburn occurs, this affects each person differently.
GERD is also viewed as being caused by emotional stress disrupting the Qi, or vital energy flow. Stagnation of Qi can lead to gastric acid reflux. Emotional stress stimulates one of the cranial nerves which control stomach secretion (the vagus nerve), which leads to an increase in secretion of various gastric fluids as well as stomach muscle contraction. Traditional five element acupuncture can help to lower gastric acid, adjust oesophageal pressure and balance the functions of the digestive organs and calm the emotions.
Along with Traditional five element acupuncture treatment, restoration of proper digestion may also require lifestyle modifications, such as balanced sleeping patterns and moderate regular exercise. Working with yourself as whole in body, mind and spirit.
For more information contact Hannah on ;- https://www.southwellacupuncture.co.uk/contact/
