Heartburn can happen to anyone and there’s no denying when it occurs. The uncomfortable burning sensation can leave you feeling miserable and can be a sign of indigestion. However, it isn’t to be confused with acid reflux, a similar but more serious digestive issue that’s caused by the backflow of digestive juices into the esophagus. Acid reflux is a major problem that can lead to risks of aspiration and damage to the esophagus over time. For these reasons, acid reflux should be taken seriously, especially if it becomes chronic.
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What Causes Acid Reflux?
There are plenty of reasons you could experience this issue and they can vary widely. According to Renowned Doctor in UAE, most often, it is related to your dietary choices. Determining why it happens can help you make a plan for improvement.
Diet and Eating Habits
Foods that are high in fat or acid can lead to digestive issues and acid reflux. Some of the worst offenders include:
- Tomatoes
- Citrus
- Mint
- Chocolate
- Carbonated drinks
- Fried or fatty foods
- Spicy foods
If you consume a high number of these items, there’s a good chance you will develop digestive issues over time, including acid reflux.
When you eat also plays an important role. If you eat healthier foods that are less likely to cause problems, you can still experience reflux if you consume them close to bedtime or lie down right after eating.
Underlying Conditions
Sometimes those with a healthy diet free from irritating foods can still experience reflux. If this is the case, it may be due to an underlying disease or condition. Many health problems can lead to acid reflux, including a hiatal hernia, issues with the vagus nerve, GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease), or scleroderma. These require a diagnosis from your doctor and professional treatment.
Weight Gain
Carrying excess weight, especially in your midsection, can also lead to acid reflux. This excess mass can put pressure on the digestive system organs, resulting in the backflow of the digestive juices. This is one of the reasons why reflux is a common complaint among pregnant women.
Stress
If you’re feeling high levels of stress on a regular basis, you’re more at risk for digestive issues, including heartburn and reflux. When you are stressed, your body tends to produce more stomach acid, and this elevated concentration can aggravate the digestive organs and their linings. This is especially true if you have an underlying digestive issue as well, such as GERD.
How Do You Treat Acid Reflux?
It’s important to take a holistic approach when dealing with this common but sometimes serious health issue. Medication without the right eating habits will not eradicate the problem at the source. On the other hand, if you have an underlying condition, even the healthiest diet routine may not eliminate your acid reflux symptoms without the help of medical treatment. Your doctor can help you create a complete treatment plan for your unique situation.
Lifestyle Changes
Those who are susceptible to heartburn and reflux should eat smaller, more frequent meals rather than large ones. It’s important to avoid troublesome foods that can aggravate symptoms. Many experts recommend the GERD diet to help effectively nourish the body while minimizing the frequency of reflux episodes. Also, try not to eat at all for at least three hours before you go to bed. This gives your body ample time to digest before you lie down, ensuring those digestive juices stay put in the stomach with the help of gravity.
Pharmacological Options
Antacids are some of the most gentle and easy-to-take options for reflux symptoms. They work by neutralizing the acids in the stomach so it stays more settled. Your doctor may also recommend an acid-reducing medication, such as a proton-pump inhibitor. Both over-the-counter and prescription options exist. Always follow the instructions on dosing amounts and frequency. If a healthy lifestyle and medication regimen do not improve symptoms, surgery may be recommended.
Acid reflux is more than just a pain; it’s a serious medical issue that could be a sign of a major health problem. Talk to your doctor today about the right way to get this digestive concern under control.
