Acid Reflux

Acid reflux, also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), is a prevalent and uncomfortable gastrointestinal condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing irritation and leading to a number of symptoms. In this blog, we’ll dive into the causes, symptoms, and effective treatments for acid reflux to help you understand and cope with this common health problem.

Causes of Acid Reflux:

The root cause of acid reflux is a malfunction of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), a circular band of muscles located at the entrance to the stomach. Normally, the LES acts as a valve that allows food and liquids to enter the stomach while preventing stomach acid from flowing back into the esophagus. However, certain factors can weaken the LES, leading to the occurrence of GERD:

• Diet: Eating large meals or specific trigger foods such as spicy, fatty and acidic foods, citrus fruits, tomatoes, chocolate and caffeine can contribute to GERD.
• Lifestyle choices: Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and obesity are associated with an increased risk of GERD.
• Hiatal hernia: A condition where part of the stomach protrudes into the chest cavity through the diaphragm can promote GERD.
• Pregnancy: Hormonal changes and increased pressure on the stomach during pregnancy can lead to GERD symptoms.

Symptoms:

Recognizing the symptoms of is essential for early detection and effective treatment. Common symptoms of include:

• Heartburn: Burning in the chest, often accompanied by a sour taste in the mouth.
• Regurgitation: Backflow of stomach contents, including acid, into the throat or mouth, causing a bitter or sour taste.
• Dysphagia: Difficulty swallowing or the sensation of food sticking in the throat.
• Chest pain: Discomfort or pain in the chest area that can sometimes be mistaken for a heart-related problem.
• Persistent cough: A chronic cough, especially at night, can be a symptom of acid reflux that irritates the throat.
• Laryngitis: Inflammation of the vocal cords due to acid irritation, resulting in hoarseness or sore throat.

Effective Management of Acid Reflux:

While acid reflux can be bothersome, there are several lifestyle modifications and treatments that can be managed and reduce its impact on your daily life:

• Diet modification: Avoid trigger foods and choose a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins.
• Portion control: Choose smaller, more frequent meals rather than large, heavy meals to reduce stress on the LES.
• Weight management: If you are overweight or obese, losing weight can greatly improve your acid reflux symptoms.
• Elevate the head of the bed: Elevating the head of the bed about 6-8 inches can help prevent stomach acid from flowing into the esophagus during sleep.
• Avoid lying down after eating: Allow food to digest for at least two to three hours before lying down.
• Quit smoking and limit alcohol intake: Both smoking and excessive alcohol consumption weaken the LES and worsen acid reflux.
• Medications: Over-the-counter antacids can provide temporary relief, while doctors may prescribe proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) or H2 blockers for more severe cases.
• Surgery: In extreme cases where lifestyle changes and medications are ineffective, surgery may be considered to strengthen the LES and prevent reflux.

Acid reflux is a common digestive problem that affects many individuals, but it can be effectively managed with the right knowledge and lifestyle adjustments. By making dietary changes, adopting healthy habits, and seeking medical help when needed, you can relieve symptoms and improve your overall quality of life. If you suspect you have acid reflux or are experiencing persistent symptoms, consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and personalized treatment plan. Remember, early intervention is key to preventing further complications and promoting better digestive health.

To consult a Gastroenterologist at Sparsh for acid reflux, call our helpline number 9830117733.

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Disclaimer:

No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.