Hypochlorhydria is the medical term for a low level of stomach acid. People with hypochlorhydria can experience digestive problems, nutritional deficiencies, and gastrointestinal infections, but prompt treatment can prevent serious complications.

And, as we know, stomach acid, along with various enzymes, helps break down food. Other functions of this acid include helping the body absorb certain nutrients, such as protein and vitamin B-12 or eliminating bacteria and other pathogens in the stomach to prevent infection.

Causes

Age

The stomach can produce less acid as a result of aging. According to a 2013 review, hypochlorhydria is the main change in the stomach of older adults. People over the age of 65 are at the highest risk.

Stress

While everyday stress may not have much of an effect on stomach acid production, chronic stress can contribute to hypochlorhydria.

Medicines

Long-term use of antacids or other medications for reflux or heartburn can decrease the body’s production of stomach acid.

Bacterial infection

More than 50% of people worldwide are infected with a bacteria called Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori). This infection can contribute to low stomach acid levels and gastric ulcers.

Zinc deficiency

Zinc is necessary for the production of stomach acid. Lack of this mineral can contribute to hypochlorhydria.

Stomach surgery

Some surgical procedures, including gastric bypass surgery, can reduce the amount of acid your stomach produces.

Symptoms

Symptoms of hypochlorhydria can include:

– swelling
– belching
– diarrhea
– gases
– Hair loss
– acidity
– intestinal infections
– nausea when taking supplements
– nutrient deficiencies, including deficiencies in iron and vitamin B-12
– stomachache
– weak nails

There is also a link between hypochlorhydria and other medical problems, such as:

– allergies
– anemia
– asthma
– autoimmune disorders
– skin problems, including acne and psoriasis

Risk factor’s

As we have discussed, being 65 or older is a risk factor for developing hypochlorhydria. But there are other agents that can contribute:

– take medicines to reduce stomach acid production
– be 65 years or older
– having high levels of stress continuously
– follow a diet that lacks zinc or has poor zinc absorption
– have an H. pylori infection
– have undergone stomach surgery

Diagnosis

To diagnose hypochlorhydria, the doctor will usually review the patient’s medical history and perform a physical exam. They can also test for heartburn with a small capsule that contains a transmitter. The patient swallows the capsule and the transmitter reports the amount of acid in the gastrointestinal tract.

Doctors measure acidity using the pH scale. A pH value of 3-5 suggests hypochlorhydria, while a pH level of less than 3 indicates normal stomach acid levels. If the pH value is greater than 5, this suggests an almost complete absence of stomach acid, which is called achlorhydria.

If left untreated, hypochlorhydria can negatively affect an individual’s health and well-being. Treatment options include making diet and lifestyle changes or taking supplements.