WHAT IS ACID REFLUX?

Acid reflux is caused when the valve also called the sphincter connecting the stomach to the esophagus is weakened. The weakening allows stomach acid to flow back to the food pipe. As the acid is an irritant, the food pipe-lining also becomes inflamed causing discomfort and heartburn sensation. You may feel hot, acidic, or sour fluid in the throat. You may also feel chest pain when bending down or after lying down. If the problem persists for more than twice a week it causes gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

In India, around 10 million people are affected by acid reflux every year. Pregnancy, obesity, diabetes, asthma, etc can lead to reflux of acid into the esophagus.

Symptoms of Acid Reflux

Obesity/ fatty foods can lead to acid reflux. The main symptom of acid reflux is heartburn. Heartburn is a pain that moves up towards the chest from your stomach. Despite the name, it has nothing to do with the heart.

Apart from heartburn, other symptoms are:

• Regurgitation: A sour acid backing up into your mouth.
• Burping
• Bloating
• Bloody Vomiting
• Black stools
• Hiccups
• Dysphagia
• Nausea
• Weight loss
• Dry cough
• Sore throat

Treatment of Acid Reflux

The treatment for Acid reflux or GERD is given by a Gastroenterologist. The first step he would be suggesting is to modify and improve your diet and lifestyle. But if the problem persists, the doctor will recommend some medications. If you are residing in Mumbai, you can connect with Dr. Harshad Joshi, he is one of the Best Gastroenterologists in Mumbai. Based on the severity of your disease, he can suggest the best treatment.

Ways to Reduce Stomach Acid:

There are different medicinal treatments available for acid reflux, but initially, a few changes in your dietary habits and lifestyle may gradually reduce your symptoms of acid reflux. 

The following are a few ways to reduce stomach acid and relieve you of heartburn and acid reflux:

• Maintain your weight
• Wait for around 1 hour before you lie down after a meal
• Avoid Overeating
• Avoid food that causes acid reflux
• Say no to tight-fitting clothes
• Elevate the head of your bed
• Include a low-carb diet
• Try sleeping on your left side
• Stop Smoking
• Say no to Alcohol

Trying these few ways can help you in relieving the pain or heart-burning sensation. For medical help, you can connect with