Hyperacidic stomach and acid reflux

Hyperacidity of the stomach results from the higher than normal secretion of gastric acid. If this occurs, the pH of the stomach is extremely low at all times and gastric acid secretion is high.

Risks associated with a hyperacidic stomach

Excessive secretion of gastric acid poses a particularly high risk when associated with gastro-oesophageal reflux discomfort or acid reflux, i.e. when the contents of the stomach return up to the oesophagus and mouth. Unlike that of the stomach, the mucous membrane of the oesophagus is not resistant to acid and the rising hyperacidic stomach contents may cause severe damage.

Hyperacidic stomach symptoms

Usually, a hyperacidic stomach causes symptoms only when associated with acid reflux. In this case, the highly acidic contents of the stomach rise to the oesophagus, causing heartburn (oesophageal burning). The symptoms often when ingesting certain types of food and at nights, as the stomach contents can more easily rise into the oesophagus when lying down.

Hyperacidity of the stomach increases the risk of peptic ulcer and, when combined with a possible acid reflux, may cause damage to the oesophageal mucous membrane.