Acid Reflux and Palpitations: Understanding the Connection

What is Acid Reflux?

Acid reflux, also known as GERD/gastroesophageal reflux disease, is a condition characterised by the backflow of stomach acid into the oesophagus (food pipe) and is associated with symptoms like heartburn, regurgitation, chest pain, coughing, and throat burning.To read more about GERD, read the blog - GERD: Understanding the Frame of Acid Reflux.

In Ayurveda, acid reflux is referred to as Amlapitta, which is associated with imbalances in the bioenergies - Vata and Pitta doshas. Pitta dosha  imbalance can lead to increased:

• Acidity in the stomach
• Hormonal disturbances
• Release of stress hormones

The imbalanced pitta dosha, in turn, causes the other bioenergies to move out of balance. This leads to various symptoms like:

• Upset stomach
• Regurgitation
• Loss of appetite
• Irritability
• Insomnia
• Physical discomfort
• Emotional imbalances

What are Palpitations?

Palpitations, as mentioned above, refer to the sensation of irregular or rapid heartbeats.

Sometimes, you may feel it as a flutter in the chest or as a more pronounced pounding. 

Palpitation can be caused by various factors, including:

• Anxiety.
• Stress.
• Strenuous physical activity.
• Caffeine.
• Certain medications.

Does that mean all palpitations are dangerous? Don't worry!

While most palpitations are not life-threatening, it is important that you know the difference between episodes that are harmless and those that may signal an underlying heart condition.

A palpitation associated with some other symptoms, as given below, can point towards a serious heart condition. 

• Severe chest pain.
• Shortness of breath.
• Dizziness or fainting.
• A rapid and irregular heartbeat that persists for a longer time.

These symptoms will require immediate medical attention.

How do Ayurvedic experts explain the connection between palpitations and the gut?

An imbalance in the body's bio-energies, Vata and Pitta, disrupts the heart’s rhythm. This imbalance can stem from the gut issues you face. That is why Ayurveda focuses on diet and lifestyle to bring it down even when it is a condition like palpitation. The aim is to restore the dosha balance.

Is Acid Reflux a Trigger for Palpitation? Know the Connecting Link!

Acid reflux can potentially lead to palpitations through several mechanisms.

• The backflow of stomach acid into the oesophagus can cause irritation and lead to inflammation of the lining of the stomach. This stimulates the vagus nerve, which is connected to the heart. This can result in palpitations or irregular heartbeats.
• The release of stress hormones triggered by acid reflux can contribute to an increased heart rate and palpitations.

From an Ayurvedic perspective, Vata and Pitta dosha aggravation and associated vitiation of bioenergies can directly affect the cardiovascular system and potentially lead to palpitations. When Vata, the bioenergy responsible for the movement in the body, is imbalanced, it can disrupt the natural movement of the heart and blood vessels, causing irregularities in the heartbeat.

On the other hand, an imbalance of Pitta dosha—the bioenergy responsible for the inflammatory response in the body—can generate excess heat and inflammation, including in the cardiovascular system, contributing to palpitations. Therefore, your heart health is affected when there is an imbalance in the pitta bioenergy, which in turn indicates an unhealthy gut and aggravated digestive fire (Agni).

Beat the Irregular Heartbeats: Managing Acid Reflux with Ayurveda and Yoga

Ayurveda therapies aim to address the underlying dosha balance and primarily focus on treating the root cause and not just on the symptoms.

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Ayurveda treatment principles for managing acid reflux and palpitation include restoring Vata-Pitta balance in the body by ensuring a healthy digestive fire. Stress reduction plays a crucial role in managing acid reflux-related palpitations.

Yoga and meditation are powerful stress-relieving and relaxing tools that help improve gut and heart health. Exercises, gentle yoga postures, deep breathing, and meditation techniques can calm the mind, reduce anxiety, and support overall well-being.

So, how do we stop GERD-related palpitations?

• Lifestyle and dietary modifications—consuming easily digestible foods and avoiding spicy, fried, and acidic foods.
• Managing stress levels-—yoga and meditation.
• Maintaining a routine.
• Maintaining a proper sleep cycle.
• Indulging in cooling therapies, including herbal medications.

By embracing the holistic approaches of Ayurveda and incorporating yoga into your daily routine, acid reflux-related palpitations can be effectively managed. 

Consult an experienced Ayurvedic practitioner and a qualified yoga instructor to personalise your treatment plan and ensure optimal results. Get connected to the ayurveda experts at Nirva Health to reclaim control over your well-being with these natural and empowering practices!

Summary

The answer to managing palpitations often lies in understanding the connection between palpitation and acid reflux. While some palpitations are harmless and caused by mild stress, others can be life-threatening.

If you know that your palpitations are from acid reflux, restoring your gut health is the one thing you must aim at. 

Choose natural ways to restore your body's balance to normalcy and find yourself on the path of well-being.