Acid indigestion is a common digestive disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. It is a condition where the acid from the stomach flows back into the esophagus, causing discomfort and pain. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of acid indigestion, its origin, and its associations.
Definitions
Acid indigestion, also known as heartburn or acid reflux, is a condition where the acid from the stomach flows back into the esophagus, causing a burning sensation in the chest and throat. It is caused by the weakening of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), a ring of muscle that separates the esophagus from the stomach.
Origin
Acid indigestion has been around for centuries, but it was not until the 19th century that it was first described as a medical condition. The term “heartburn” was coined in the 16th century, but it was not until the 20th century that the term “acid indigestion” became widely used.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, acid indigestion is defined as “a burning feeling in the chest that occurs when stomach acid backs up into the esophagus.” The Oxford English Dictionary defines it as “a painful burning sensation in the chest caused by the regurgitation of acid from the stomach into the esophagus.”
Associations
Acid indigestion is often associated with certain foods, such as spicy or fatty foods, as well as with certain lifestyle habits, such as smoking and drinking alcohol. It is also associated with pregnancy, obesity, and certain medical conditions, such as hiatal hernia and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
Synonyms
Some synonyms for acid indigestion include heartburn, acid reflux, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
Antonyms
There are no specific antonyms for acid indigestion, but some people may use terms such as “acid-free” or “indigestion-free” to describe the absence of acid indigestion.
The same root words
The root words of acid indigestion are “acid” and “indigestion.” Acid refers to a substance with a pH less than 7, while indigestion refers to a condition where food is not properly digested in the stomach.
Example Sentences
- “I had a bad case of acid indigestion after eating that spicy curry last night.”
- “My doctor prescribed medication to help with my acid reflux.”
- “Avoiding certain foods and lifestyle habits can help prevent acid indigestion.”