The tissues of a living organism are very sensitive to fluctuations in pH - outside the permissible range, denaturation of proteins occurs: cells are destroyed, enzymes lose the ability to perform their functions, and the death of the organism is possible

What is pH (hydrogen index) and acid-base balance

The ratio of acid and alkali in any solution is called acid-base balance(ASR), although physiologists believe that it is more correct to call this ratio the acid-base state.

KShchR is characterized by a special indicator pH(power Hydrogen - “hydrogen power”), which shows the number of hydrogen atoms in a given solution. At a pH of 7.0 they speak of a neutral environment.

The lower the pH level, the more acidic the environment (from 6.9 to O).

Alkaline environment has high level pH (from 7.1 to 14.0).

The human body is 70% water, so water is one of its most important components. T atehuman has a certain acid-base ratio, characterized by pH (hydrogen) indicator.

The pH value depends on the ratio between positively charged ions (forming an acidic environment) and negatively charged ions (forming an alkaline environment).

The body constantly strives to balance this ratio, maintaining a strictly defined pH level. When the balance is disturbed, many serious diseases can occur.

Maintain the correct pH balance for good health

The body is able to properly absorb and store minerals and nutrients only at the proper level of acid-base balance. The tissues of a living organism are very sensitive to fluctuations in pH - outside the permissible range, denaturation of proteins occurs: cells are destroyed, enzymes lose the ability to perform their functions, and the death of the organism is possible. Therefore, the acid-base balance in the body is strictly regulated.

Our body uses hydrochloric acid to break down food. In the process of vital activity of the body, both acidic and alkaline foods disintegration, and more of the former are formed than the latter. Therefore, the body’s defense systems, which ensure the invariability of its ASR, are “tuned” primarily to neutralize and remove, first of all, acidic decomposition products.

Blood has a slightly alkaline reaction: The pH of arterial blood is 7.4, and that of venous blood is 7.35 (due to excess CO2).

A pH shift of even 0.1 can lead to severe pathology.

When the blood pH shifts by 0.2, a coma develops, and by 0.3, the person dies.

The body has different PH levels

Saliva is a predominantly alkaline reaction (pH fluctuation 6.0 - 7.9)

Typically, the acidity of mixed human saliva is 6.8–7.4 pH, but with high salivation rates it reaches 7.8 pH. The acidity of the saliva of the parotid glands is 5.81 pH, of the submandibular glands - 6.39 pH. In children, on average, the acidity of mixed saliva is 7.32 pH, in adults - 6.40 pH (Rimarchuk G.V. et al.). The acid-base balance of saliva, in turn, is determined by a similar balance in the blood, which nourishes the salivary glands.

Esophagus - Normal acidity in the esophagus is 6.0–7.0 pH.

Liver - the reaction of gallbladder bile is close to neutral (pH 6.5 - 6.8), the reaction of hepatic bile is alkaline (pH 7.3 - 8.2)

Stomach - sharply acidic (at the height of digestion pH 1.8 - 3.0)

The maximum theoretically possible acidity in the stomach is 0.86 pH, which corresponds to an acid production of 160 mmol/l. The minimum theoretically possible acidity in the stomach is 8.3 pH, which corresponds to the acidity of a saturated solution of HCO 3 - ions. Normal acidity in the lumen of the body of the stomach on an empty stomach is 1.5–2.0 pH. The acidity on the surface of the epithelial layer facing the lumen of the stomach is 1.5–2.0 pH. The acidity in the depths of the epithelial layer of the stomach is about 7.0 pH. Normal acidity in the antrum of the stomach is 1.3–7.4 pH.

It is a common misconception that the main problem for humans is increased stomach acidity. It causes heartburn and ulcers.

In fact, much big problem represents low stomach acidity, which is many times more common.

The main cause of heartburn in 95% is not an excess, but a lack of hydrochloric acid in the stomach.

Lack of hydrochloric acid creates ideal conditions for colonization of the intestinal tract by various bacteria, protozoa and worms.

The insidiousness of the situation is that low stomach acidity “behaves quietly” and goes unnoticed by humans.

Here is a list of signs that suggest a decrease in stomach acidity.

• Discomfort in the stomach after eating.
• Nausea after taking medications.
• Flatulence in the small intestine.
• Loose stools or constipation.
• Undigested food particles in the stool.
• Itching around the anus.
• Multiple food allergies.
• Dysbacteriosis or candidiasis.
• Dilated blood vessels on the cheeks and nose.
• Acne.
• Weak, peeling nails.
• Anemia due to poor iron absorption.

Of course, an accurate diagnosis of low acidity requires determining the pH of gastric juice(for this you need to contact a gastroenterologist).

When acidity is high, there are many drugs to reduce it.

In case of low acidity effective means very little.

As a rule, hydrochloric acid preparations or vegetable bitters are used to stimulate the secretion of gastric juice (wormwood, calamus, peppermint, fennel, etc.).

Pancreas - pancreatic juice is slightly alkaline (pH 7.5 - 8.0)

Small intestine - alkaline reaction (pH 8.0)

Normal acidity in the onion duodenum 5.6–7.9 pH. The acidity in the jejunum and ileum is neutral or slightly alkaline and ranges from 7 to 8 pH. Juice acidity small intestine 7.2–7.5 pH. With increased secretion it reaches 8.6 pH. The acidity of the secretion of the duodenal glands is from pH 7 to 8 pH.

Large intestine - slightly acidic reaction (5.8 - 6.5 pH)

This is a slightly acidic environment, which is maintained by normal microflora, in particular bifidobacteria, lactobacilli and propionobacteria due to the fact that they neutralize alkaline metabolic products and produce their acidic metabolites - lactic acid and other organic acids. By producing organic acids and reducing the pH of the intestinal contents, normal microflora creates conditions under which pathogenic and opportunistic microorganisms cannot multiply. This is why streptococci, staphylococci, klebsiella, clostridia fungi and other “bad” bacteria make up only 1% of the entire intestinal microflora of a healthy person.

Urine is predominantly slightly acidic (pH 4.5-8)

When eating foods containing animal proteins containing sulfur and phosphorus, mostly acidic urine (pH less than 5) is excreted; in the final urine there is a significant amount of inorganic sulfates and phosphates. If the food is mainly dairy or vegetable, then the urine tends to become alkalized (pH more than 7). The renal tubules play a significant role in maintaining acid-base balance. Acidic urine will be produced in all conditions leading to metabolic or respiratory acidosis as the kidneys compensate for changes in acid-base status.

Skin - slightly acidic reaction (pH 4-6)

If your skin is prone to oiliness, the pH value may approach 5.5. And if the skin is very dry, the pH can be 4.4.

The bactericidal property of the skin, which gives it the ability to resist microbial invasion, is due to the acidic reaction of keratin, a peculiar chemical composition sebum and sweat, the presence on its surface of a protective water-lipid mantle with a high concentration of hydrogen ions. The low molecular weight fatty acids it contains, primarily glycophospholipids and free fatty acids, have a bacteriostatic effect that is selective for pathogenic microorganisms.

Genitals

The normal acidity of a woman's vagina ranges from 3.8 to 4.4 pH and averages 4.0 to 4.2 pH.

At birth, a girl's vagina is sterile. Then, within a few days, it is populated by a variety of bacteria, mainly staphylococci, streptococci, and anaerobes (that is, bacteria that do not require oxygen to live). Before the onset of menstruation, the acidity level (pH) of the vagina is close to neutral (7.0). But during puberty, the walls of the vagina thicken (under the influence of estrogen, one of the female sex hormones), the pH decreases to 4.4 (i.e., acidity increases), which causes changes in the vaginal flora.

The uterine cavity is normally sterile, and the entry of pathogenic microorganisms into it is prevented by lactobacilli that populate the vagina and maintain the high acidity of its environment. If for some reason the acidity of the vagina shifts towards alkaline, the number of lactobacilli drops sharply, and in their place other microbes develop that can enter the uterus and lead to inflammation, and then to problems with pregnancy.

Sperm

The normal acidity level of sperm is between 7.2 and 8.0 pH. An increase in the pH level of sperm occurs during an infectious process. A sharply alkaline reaction of sperm (acidity approximately 9.0–10.0 pH) indicates prostate pathology. When the excretory ducts of both seminal vesicles are blocked, an acidic reaction of the sperm is observed (acidity 6.0–6.8 pH). The fertilizing ability of such sperm is reduced. In an acidic environment, sperm lose motility and die. If the acidity of the seminal fluid becomes less than 6.0 pH, the sperm completely lose their motility and die.

Cells and intercellular fluid

In the cells of the body the pH is about 7, in the extracellular fluid it is 7.4. Nerve endings that are outside cells are very sensitive to changes in pH. When mechanical or thermal damage occurs to tissues, cell walls are destroyed and their contents reach the nerve endings. As a result, the person feels pain.

Scandinavian researcher Olaf Lindahl conducted the following experiment: using a special needle-free injector, a very thin stream of solution was injected through the skin of a person, which did not damage the cells, but acted on the nerve endings. It has been shown that it is hydrogen cations that cause pain, and as the pH of the solution decreases, the pain intensifies.

Similarly, a solution of formic acid, which is injected under the skin by stinging insects or nettles, directly “acts on the nerves.” The different pH values ​​of tissues also explain why with some inflammations a person feels pain, and with others - not.

Interestingly, injection under the skin clean water gave particularly severe pain. This phenomenon, strange at first glance, is explained as follows: cells upon contact with clean water as a result of osmotic pressure they rupture and their contents affect the nerve endings.

Table 1. Hydrogen indicators for solutions

Solution	RN
HCl	1,0
H2SO4	1,2
H2C2O4	1,3
NaHSO4	1,4
N 3 PO 4	1,5
Gastric juice	1,6
Wine acid	2,0
Lemon acid	2,1
HNO2	2,2
Lemon juice	2,3
Lactic acid	2,4
Salicylic acid	2,4
Table vinegar	3,0
Grapefruit juice	3,2
CO 2	3,7
Apple juice	3,8
H2S	4,1
Urine	4,8-7,5
Black coffee	5,0
Saliva	7,4-8
Milk	6,7
Blood	7,35-7,45
Bile	7,8-8,6
Ocean water	7,9-8,4
Fe(OH)2	9,5
MgO	10,0
Mg(OH)2	10,5
Na 2 CO 3
Ca(OH)2	11,5
NaOH	13,0

Fish eggs and fry are especially sensitive to changes in pH. The table allows you to make a series interesting observations. pH values, for example, immediately indicate the relative strength of acids and bases. A strong change is also clearly visible neutral environment as a result of the hydrolysis of salts formed by weak acids and bases, as well as the dissociation of acid salts.

Urine pH is not a good indicator of overall body pH, and it is not good indicator general health.

In other words, no matter what you eat and no matter what your urine pH, you can be absolutely sure that your arterial blood pH will always be around 7.4.

When a person consumes, for example, acidic foods or animal protein, under the influence of buffer systems, the pH shifts to the acidic side (becomes less than 7), and when consumed, for example, mineral water or plant foods, it shifts to alkaline (becomes more than 7). Buffer systems keep the pH within the acceptable range for the body.

By the way, doctors claim that we tolerate a shift to the acid side (that same acidosis) much easier than a shift to the alkaline side (alkalosis).

It is impossible to shift the pH of the blood by any external influence.

THE MAIN MECHANISMS FOR MAINTAINING BLOOD PH ARE:

1. Blood buffer systems (carbonate, phosphate, protein, hemoglobin)

This mechanism acts very quickly (fractions of a second) and therefore belongs to the fast mechanisms for regulating the stability of the internal environment.

Bicarbonate blood buffer quite powerful and most mobile.

One of the important buffers of blood and other body fluids is the bicarbonate buffer system (HCO3/CO2): CO2 + H2O ⇄ HCO3- + H+ The main function of the bicarbonate buffer system of the blood is the neutralization of H+ ions. This buffer system plays a particularly important role since the concentrations of both buffer components can be adjusted independently of each other; [CO2] - through respiration, - in the liver and kidneys. Thus, it is an open buffer system.

The hemoglobin buffer system is the most powerful.
It accounts for more than half buffer capacity blood. The buffering properties of hemoglobin are determined by the ratio of reduced hemoglobin (HHb) and its potassium salt (KHb).

Plasma proteins due to the ability of amino acids to ionize, they also perform a buffer function (about 7% of the buffer capacity of the blood). In an acidic environment they behave as acid-binding bases.

Phosphate buffer system(about 5% of the blood buffer capacity) is formed by inorganic blood phosphates. The properties of an acid are exhibited by monobasic phosphate (NaH 2 P0 4), and the properties of bases are exhibited by dibasic phosphate (Na 2 HP0 4). They function on the same principle as bicarbonates. However, due to the low content of phosphates in the blood, the capacity of this system is small.

2. Respiratory (pulmonary) regulation system.

Because of the ease with which the lungs regulate CO2 concentrations, this system has significant buffering capacity. Removal of excess amounts of CO 2 and regeneration of bicarbonate and hemoglobin buffer systems are carried out by the lungs.

At rest, a person emits 230 ml of carbon dioxide per minute, or about 15 thousand mmol per day. When carbon dioxide is removed from the blood, approximately an equivalent amount of hydrogen ions disappears. Therefore, breathing plays an important role in maintaining acid-base balance. So, if the acidity of the blood increases, then the increase in the content of hydrogen ions leads to an increase in pulmonary ventilation (hyperventilation), while carbon dioxide molecules are excreted in large quantities and the pH returns to normal levels.

An increase in the content of bases is accompanied by hypoventilation, as a result of which the concentration of carbon dioxide in the blood increases and, accordingly, the concentration of hydrogen ions, and the shift in the blood reaction to the alkaline side is partially or completely compensated.

Consequently, the external respiration system can quite quickly (within a few minutes) eliminate or reduce pH shifts and prevent the development of acidosis or alkalosis: increasing pulmonary ventilation by 2 times increases the blood pH by about 0.2; reducing ventilation by 25% can reduce pH by 0.3-0.4.

3. Renal (excretory system)

Acts very slowly (10-12 hours). But this mechanism is the most powerful and is able to completely restore the body's pH by removing urine with alkaline or acidic pH values. The participation of the kidneys in maintaining acid-base balance is the removal of hydrogen ions from the body, the reabsorption of bicarbonate from the tubular fluid, the synthesis of bicarbonate when there is a deficiency and removal when there is an excess.

The main mechanisms for reducing or eliminating shifts in blood acid-rich hormone, implemented by kidney nephrons, include acidogenesis, ammoniaogenesis, phosphate secretion and the K+, Ka+ exchange mechanism.

The mechanism for regulating blood pH in the whole organism is the combined action of external respiration, blood circulation, excretion and buffer systems. Thus, if excess anions appear as a result of increased formation of H 2 CO 3 or other acids, they are first neutralized by buffer systems. At the same time, breathing and blood circulation intensify, which leads to an increase in the release of carbon dioxide by the lungs. Non-volatile acids, in turn, are excreted in urine or sweat.

Normally, the pH of the blood can change only for a short time. Naturally, if the lungs or kidneys are damaged, the body’s functional capabilities to maintain pH at the proper level are reduced. If it appears in the blood large quantity acidic or basic ions, only buffer mechanisms (without the help of excretion systems) will not keep the pH at a constant level. This leads to acidosis or alkalosis. published

©Olga Butakova “Acid-base balance is the basis of life”

Gastric secretions are essential for digestion. Hydrochloric acid in the stomach is produced by its glands. Like any acid, it is aggressive and harmful in increased quantities, but at normal levels it does not exhibit negative influence on the stomach. Any changes in the acid-base balance lead to digestive problems and diseases in the body.

Hydrochloric acid and gastric juice: what is it?

Gastric juice is a colorless, acidic liquid containing mucus, enzymes, salts, and water. One of the most important in this cocktail is HCl. About 2.5 liters are released per day. The content of hydrochloric acid in the human stomach is 160 mmol/l. If not for the protective mucous layer, it could have damaged the integrity of the organ. Its presence in gastric secretions is necessary for normal digestion.

Where and how is it produced?

Hydrochloric acid plays a major role in complex system digestion.

The environment in the human stomach is provided by HCl. It is produced by parietal cells of the fundus and body of the organ. This is where most of it is formed. Along the way, the pH level decreases due to partial neutralization by bicarbonates. The formation mechanism begins from the moment a person catches the smell of food. The parasympathetic NS (nervous system) is activated, acetylcholine and gastrin irritate the receptors of the parietal cells, which leads to the onset of hydrochloric acid production. Its secretion occurs while food is in the stomach. After its evacuation into the intestine, synthesis is blocked by somatostatin.

Main functions

The role of gastric juice is determined by its components. The main functions of hydrochloric acid in the stomach are to denature proteins and protect the organ from bacteria. Complete digestion and absorption of protein foods is impaired if it has not undergone breakdown under the influence of acid. Instead of useful amino acids, ammonia, gases and rotting products are formed. Therefore, the cleavage of large peptide molecules with hydrochloric acid has important for their complete assimilation. The enzyme pepsin, which is found in gastric juice, also breaks down proteins, but its activity requires normal stomach acidity.

Pathogenic microorganisms enter the mouth with food. Here, under the influence of lysozyme, they are partially neutralized. Some of them enter the stomach, where they are killed by the released hydrochloric acid. The food contained here is evacuated into the intestines only after being cleansed of bacteria. Otherwise, vomiting occurs, which is a kind of defensive reaction.

In addition, the role of hydrochloric acid in gastric juice is to stimulate the production of secretin in the duodenum. It also plays a role in improving iron absorption, regulating the acid-base balance in the body, enhancing the secretory activity of the gastric glands and pancreas and the motor activity of the stomach.

Reasons for increased and decreased secretion

Aggressive stomach contents irritate the mucous membranes.

• Wrong diet. Excessive consumption of fatty, spicy, smoked foods leads to increased acid production, and frequent overeating leads to decreased acid production.
• Inappropriate chewing of food. Eating on the go and in a hurry leads to the fact that poorly chopped pieces of food end up in the stomach. They require much more HCl to be digested and broken down, resulting in increased HCl production.
• Stress. During nervous tension people go to extremes. Some eat continuously, others, on the contrary, forget about eating, someone starts drinking alcohol, etc. All this affects secretion.
• Drug treatment. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory and hormonal drugs can lead to increased acidity.
• Smoking. Toxic tobacco smoke disrupts the structural and functional activity of gastric cells.
• Helicobacter pylori. It releases substances that destroy the structure of the mucous membrane and the acid balance in the human stomach.

How does acidity disorder manifest itself?

Belching is accompanied by an unpleasant sour taste.

If the acid-base balance is disturbed, a person feels discomfort. A key sign of elevated pH levels is severe pain in the pit of the stomach that appears 2 hours after eating. In addition, patients in this group complain of sour belching, heartburn, intestinal colic, bowel dysfunction, nausea and vomiting. If the acid in a person’s stomach is not contained in sufficient quantities, then there will also be pain in the stomach area, but it will be less pronounced and aching. Lack of HCl in gastric juice causes flatulence, frequent fungal and viral diseases, and makes a person’s immune system weakened. In order to prescribe adequate treatment and prevent dangerous complications such as ulcers and stomach cancer, it is necessary to diagnose secretion disorders in a timely manner.

Diagnosis of hydrochloric acid levels

• Fractional sensing. Using special probes, gastric juice is sucked out and analyzed.
• Intragastric pH-metry. The sensors are inserted into the stomach cavity and measure the pH level directly in it.
• Acid tests. This method is based on a change in the color of urine after the patient takes certain medications with a dye. The intensity of its coloring is checked against a special scale and a conclusion is drawn about the lack or excess of acid in the stomach.
• At home, you can determine the acidity level of gastric juice by drinking a glass of sour apple juice on an empty stomach. The appearance after this of pain or burning in the stomach, a metallic taste in the mouth, will indicate an increase in it, and a desire to eat or drink something else sour - a decrease.

Gastric acidity is measured in pH and characterizes the concentration of acid in the stomach. Shifts in indicators make it possible to determine the presence or absence of diseases in the gastrointestinal tract and generally assess the state of health.

Hydrochloric acid plays the main role in the acidity level; other acids in the stomach are present in minimal quantities. The appearance of lactic acid indicates that the process of secretion of hydrochloric acid is disrupted in the body, therefore, its level is reduced to a minimum and stomach cancer may have already begun. Determination of acidity – important point to make an adequate diagnosis. It is recommended to conduct studies of acid levels in different parts of the gastrointestinal tract, from the stomach to the duodenum.

pH standard

Ideally, the norm of stomach acidity should be from 1.5 to 2.0 pH, provided that the stomach is “empty”. The maximum density is 8.3 pH, the minimum is 0.86 pH.

In a healthy person, gastric juice should contain 0.4-0.5% hydrochloric acid.

Diagnostics

Gastric acidity is best determined in a hospital or diagnostic center.

Today, there are 3 methods for determining the level of acidity of gastric juice:

1. Intragastric pH-metry. The study is carried out using special medical devices equipped with probes with pH sensors that measure the level of acidity. The technique allows you to simultaneously conduct research in several areas of the gastrointestinal tract. Depending on the goals, urgency and condition of the patient, there are 4 subtypes of diagnostics:
   1. express method, the study is carried out for 20 minutes;
   2. daily diagnostics;
   3. short-term study carried out over several hours;
   4. endoscopic, to be performed during FEGSD.

1. Fractional intubation of the stomach. Gastric juice is tested in the laboratory, after suction using a rubber tube. The technique most often gives distorted results due to the mixing of juice from different parts of the stomach during the suction period;
2. Acidotest. The technique is a non-invasive method; the level of acidity is determined by the degree of coloration of the urine. Allows you to determine the secretory activity of the stomach using uropepsin. Diagnostics are used as additional ones, since the results are not always accurate.

Determination without gastroscopy

It turns out that there are ways to determine the acidity of the stomach without gastroscopy and going to the hospital - using litmus paper, which is sold at the pharmacy. The study is carried out after eating, after 2 hours, or 1 hour before eating. During the day before the test, you should not drink carbonated drinks.

Red or pink litmus paper indicates an acidic environment, and purple indicates a neutral environment.

There are other methods for checking the acidity of the stomach at home in other ways - you need to imagine a lemon, remember its smell and taste. If increased salivation appears, then this is normal acidity.

Naturally, home methods are not the gold standard, and if you suspect problems with the stomach, it is better to have it diagnosed in a hospital to rule out possible pathologies.

Classification and symptoms

Any problems with the stomach and digestion make you nervous and think about what stomach acidity is, so you should know the symptoms characteristic of various pathologies.

Types of acidity:

• normal;
• increased;
• reduced.

The normal acidity of a person’s stomach confirms that the body is healthy and does not require any medical manipulation; in other cases, diagnosis and treatment will have to be carried out.

Increased

Characterized by concomitant pathologies:

• gastritis;
• duodenitis;
• peptic ulcer of the stomach or duodenum.

How to find out the acidity of the stomach without gastroscopy, with increased secretion– the answer is simple, according to the symptoms, it is:

• heartburn, heaviness in the gastrointestinal tract;
• sour belching;
• nausea, sometimes turning into vomiting;
• constipation

Naturally, an accurate diagnosis will be made at the clinic, but for persons under 40 years of age, and especially males, symptoms should be a reason for mandatory consultation with a doctor.

Reduced

Rarely accompanied by obvious symptoms until atrophic gastritis develops. A downward change in the pH level in the stomach weakens the body's antibacterial barrier, and rotten bacteria begin to actively multiply, which can be seen by bad breath; belching has the smell of rotten eggs.

The patient may experience a lack of appetite, constant fatigue and weakness. Along with diarrhea and flatulence, constipation may occur. Low acidity often leads to allergic reactions.

Methods of normalization, diet therapy

Increased acidity level. To reduce the aggressiveness of gastric juice, drugs from the group of holipolytics are used. Antisecretory and antacid drugs have also proven highly effective. There are proven methods from traditional medicine, this is potato juice, honey, propolis and aloe tinctures. You can reduce the acidity level with carrot juice mixed with warm milk.

During the period of exacerbation of the pathology, you should immediately stop taking spicy seasonings, over-salted foods, and, of course, give up acidic foods and dishes. Throughout all days of the diet, food should be chewed thoroughly and taken in small portions. Food will have to be steamed or served boiled.

Before every meal, consume bicarbonate mineral water, approximately 60 minutes before the start of the meal. During the period when symptoms subside, you can introduce carbohydrate-containing foods, gradually introduce lean meats, and eat soups with vegetables. Whatever the acidity of the gastric juice, you will have to forget about alcoholic beverages and quit smoking.

You can quickly get rid of the symptoms of high acidity with milk. But, this method is equal to using a strong painkiller, so you can resort to this method only in extreme cases.

Low acidity. This pathology is more difficult to treat. Drug treatment is prescribed to people only after there is no effect from therapeutic diet therapy. Conservative treatment includes the use of drugs to stimulate the production of gastric juice or containing acidin-pepsin. It is strictly forbidden to use medicines uncontrolled, only under the supervision of a doctor.

Traditional methods treatments are also included in the therapy, using wormwood as a tincture, chamomile and St. John's wort infusions.

Under no circumstances should you start treatment with medications, only diet. The diet should consist of cereals, purees and rice. Do not eat hot food. Vegetable soups, dishes with a uniform consistency and steamed, not greasy, are suitable. Only after the symptoms have subsided can you begin drug therapy so that the acidity becomes normal. Required for use fruit juices with a sour taste. You can take vitamin complexes to boost the body's immune system.

Normal stomach acidity is the key to the health of the whole body and the absence of the risk of developing severe pathologies that worsen the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract, penile system and excretory system.

Increased stomach acidity has a negative effect on digestive processes and the condition of the gastrointestinal tract, causing discomfort. Accompanies some organ diseases digestive system, including gastritis and peptic ulcers.

The acidity of the stomach, i.e., the pH of gastric juice, is determined by the concentration of hydrochloric acid contained in it, produced by parietal cells. Hydrochloric acid is necessary for the normal digestion process. Its main functions:

• imparts antibacterial properties to gastric juice;
• activates the action of digestive enzymes of gastric juice;
• denatures proteins and also promotes their swelling;
• stimulates the secretory activity of the pancreas;
• regulates the evacuation function of the stomach.

Causes

The most common cause of increased stomach acidity is a nutritional factor, i.e., improper, irrational nutrition. Spicy, salty, fatty foods, and alcoholic drinks have an irritating effect on the gastric mucosa, as a result of which the parietal cells begin to secrete hydrochloric acid in greater quantities than required. The nutritional factor also includes too rapid absorption of food. In this case, a poorly chewed bolus of food enters the stomach, not sufficiently moistened with saliva, containing too large particles. To digest it, a larger amount of gastric juice is required, and therefore hydrochloric acid, which leads to increased acid production, and therefore to an increase in the acidity of gastric juice.

An increased concentration of hydrochloric acid in gastric juice can cause damage to the mucous membrane digestive tract.

Other causes of increased stomach acidity may include:

1. Long-term use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and/or corticosteroids, since they have an irritating effect on the gastric mucosa.
2. Chronic stress. In itself, it does not have a negative effect on the state of the digestive system, however, being in a depressed state, a person stops eating properly, often smokes, drinks alcohol, which negatively affects the gastric mucosa.
3. Smoking. Nicotine has a stimulating effect on parietal cells, resulting in an increase in stomach acidity.
4. Infection with the bacterium Helicobacter pylori. This is a unique microorganism that can survive in an acidic environment. Once in the stomach, bacteria produce urease, which has an irritating effect on its walls. In an effort to destroy these bacteria, stomach cells intensively synthesize hydrochloric acid and pepsin.

Symptoms of high stomach acidity

The main symptoms of increased stomach acidity are epigastric pain and heartburn. The pain is nagging, aching and dull in nature, in most cases it occurs 1.5-2 hours after eating. Heartburn develops as a result of gastric juice entering the esophagus. Often its appearance is provoked by eating foods that increase stomach acidity:

• orange or tomato juice;
• spicy and/or fatty foods;
• smoked meats;
• some types of mineral water.

Other symptoms of high stomach acidity include:

• nausea, and in some cases vomiting, occurring 15-20 minutes after eating;
• belching sour;
• frequent intestinal colic;
• the appearance of a white-gray coating on the tongue.

Diagnostics

To determine the acidity of gastric juice in clinical practice, the following methods are used:

1. Intragastric pH-metry. Using a special device, the acidity of the stomach is determined in its various parts. The method allows for both short-term and daily pH measurements.
2. Fractional intubation of the stomach. The procedure is performed on an empty stomach. A thick probe is inserted into the patient's stomach through the mouth, and then the gastric contents are sucked out using a Janet syringe at certain intervals. This technique allows you to evaluate the characteristics of the secretory function of the stomach, as well as carry out a laboratory study of gastric juice with determination of its pH. However, fractional intubation cannot provide accurate results, since gastric juice is mixed from different zones, and in addition, the probe itself irritates the gastric mucosa. Normally, the content of hydrochloric acid in gastric juice should be 0.4–0.5%.
3. Gastrotest, or acidotest. Before starting the study, the patient completely empties the bladder, and then takes it orally. special drugs. After a certain period of time, the patient urinates again and the acidity of the gastric juice is assessed based on the degree of staining of the urine. The method is imperfect, so it is rarely used today.

You can detect increased acidity of gastric juice at home. To do this, you should drink a glass of freshly squeezed apple juice on an empty stomach, which does not contain any additives. If after some time a burning sensation appears behind the sternum, a feeling of heaviness or pain in the epigastric region, then the acidity is most likely increased.

Increased stomach acidity accompanies some diseases of the digestive system, including gastritis and peptic ulcers.

Treatment of high stomach acidity

Drug treatment of high gastric acidity is carried out with drugs from the following pharmacological groups:

• proton pump inhibitors (Omeprazole, Pantoprozole, Nolpaza) – reduce the secretion of hydrochloric acid by the parietal cells of the stomach by blocking H + /K + -ATPase;
• H2-histamine receptor blockers (Ranitidine, Cimetidine) - block histamine receptors, thereby reducing the secretion of hydrochloric acid and pepsin;
• antacids (Phosphalugel, Almagel, Rennie, Gastal) – neutralize hydrochloric acid in gastric juice, thereby eliminating heartburn, pain and discomfort;
• blockers of M1-cholinergic receptors, which have a predominant effect on stomach receptors (Gastrocepin) - inhibit the secretion of pepsin and hydrochloric acid, have a gastroprotective effect;
• antibacterial drugs - therapy for helicobacteriosis.

To prevent relapse, it is extremely important to adhere to proper nutrition for a long time, or even better – for life.

In case of severe pain, antispasmodics (Papaverine, No-shpa), as well as local anesthetics orally (novocaine solution, tablets with anesthesin) are prescribed.

Some patients take a solution of baking soda orally to eliminate symptoms of increased stomach acidity. Soda enters into a neutralization reaction with hydrochloric acid, as a result of which pain in the abdominal area and heartburn quickly disappear. But such treatment of increased stomach acidity subsequently leads to even greater secretion of hydrochloric acid by parietal cells. As a result chemical reaction between baking soda and hydrochloric acid, table salt and carbonic acid are formed, which is an unstable chemical compound that easily breaks down into water and carbon dioxide. Carbon dioxide irritates the gastric mucosa, thereby causing increased secretion of hydrochloric acid. As a result, there is an even greater increase in stomach acidity. This phenomenon in medicine is called “acid rebound”.

Diet for high stomach acidity

Modern pharmacological treatment of high stomach acidity allows you to quickly eliminate the patient’s complaints and improve his condition. However, in most cases, after some time, patients again begin to suffer from epigastric pain and heartburn. To prevent relapses, it is extremely important to adhere to proper nutrition for a long time, or even better, for life. The basic rules of the diet for high stomach acidity are:

• eating 5-6 times a day in small portions (so-called fractional meals);
• providing mechanical and chemical sparing of the stomach;
• a diet completely balanced in the content of proteins, fats and carbohydrates, as well as vitamins and microelements.

For patients suffering from diseases accompanied by high acidity of gastric juice, diet No. 1 according to Pevzner has been developed, corresponding to the listed principles. During a period of sharp exacerbation of the disease, patients are prescribed diet No. 1a for 6-8 days: dishes are prepared only by stewing or boiling, they are pureed and served warm, foods that can irritate the gastric mucosa and increase the secretion of hydrochloric acid are excluded:

• raw vegetables, berries and fruits;
• alcohol, carbonated drinks, strong tea, cocoa, coffee;
• chocolate;
• herbs, spices, sauces;
• dairy products(including cheese);
• bakery products.

Spicy, salty, fatty foods, and alcoholic drinks have an irritating effect on the gastric mucosa, which can result in increased stomach acidity.

During the period of mild exacerbation, as well as when the intensity of clinical manifestations of exacerbation decreases, diet No. 1 is recommended. With it, dishes are prepared by stewing, boiling, steaming and baking in the oven (without forming a crust). Well-cooked meat or fish can be served in portions; all other dishes should have a mushy consistency. The diet limits foods that have a stimulating effect on the gastric mucosa, such as broths. Completely excluded:

• herbs and spices;
• chocolate, ice cream;
• sour and unripe berries, fruits;
• cabbage, onions, turnips, rutabaga, cucumbers, radishes, sorrel, spinach;
• mushrooms;
• legumes;
• marinades and pickles;
• corn, pearl barley, barley, millet cereals;
• fried or hard-boiled eggs;
• sharp and salty cheeses;
• fatty fish;
• fatty meats;
• fresh and/or rye bread.

Treatment of high stomach acidity with traditional methods

As with any other pathology, treatment for high stomach acidity should be prescribed by a doctor. In agreement with him, the treatment regimen can be supplemented with some folk remedies, For example:

• carrot juice;
• freshly squeezed juice from red potato tubers;
• water infusion of chaga (birch mushroom);
• water infusions and decoctions medicinal herbs(chamomile, peppermint, St. John's wort, centaury).

Prevention

Prevention of the development of high stomach acidity should be based, first of all, on the organization of proper, balanced nutrition:

• eating small portions of food;
• chewing food thoroughly;
• inclusion in the diet of foods rich in plant fiber, vitamins, microelements, and protein;
• limiting fatty and spicy foods;
• refusal to eat fast food, snacks, so-called junk food;
• giving up alcoholic beverages and smoking.

Equally important in the prevention of high stomach acidity is the correct lifestyle:

• avoidance of stressful situations;
• regular exercise;
• compliance with the optimal work and rest regime.

It is also necessary to promptly treat infectious diseases, since they can lead to disruption of the secretory activity of cells in the gastric mucosa.

Possible consequences and complications

Excessive content of hydrochloric acid in gastric juice is dangerous for the development of severe complications that are difficult to treat. The entry of aggressive gastric contents into the lumen of the esophagus is not only accompanied by the unpleasant sensation of heartburn, but also causes damage to its mucous membrane. Long-term gastroesophageal reflux is the main cause of the formation of an esophageal ulcer, and its subsequent possible degeneration into a malignant tumor.

An increased concentration of hydrochloric acid in gastric juice can cause damage to the mucous membrane of the digestive tract. Initially, such damage is superficial and is called erosion. Subsequently, the defect spreads deeper, which leads to the formation of ulcers of the stomach and duodenum. This is a serious disease that requires long-term systematic treatment. If left untreated, it can lead to serious complications:

• ulcer malignancy;
• internal bleeding;
• stenosis of the pylorus of the stomach and/or duodenum with obstruction;

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