Recognize the Symptoms of Acid Reflux, Here's What to Do If It Happens

Kapanlagi.com - Who would have thought that acid reflux, which is often considered trivial, plays an important role in our digestive system? It is responsible for breaking down food in the stomach, ensuring that our body receives all the necessary nutrients. However, there are times when this acid misbehaves—whether due to excessive production or a weakening of the valve between the stomach and esophagus. The result? Stomach acid can rise into the esophagus, triggering a painful burning sensation and even chest pain. This is known as GERD or acid reflux disease.

The symptoms that arise when stomach acid rises often resemble other health issues, such as heart disorders or respiratory infections. Therefore, it is important for us to recognize the signs of increased stomach acid so that we can take appropriate steps before the condition worsens.

In this article, we will thoroughly uncover the characteristics of increased stomach acid, the triggering factors, as well as effective ways to address and prevent it. With a good understanding, we can keep our daily activities running smoothly without disruption. Let's check out the complete information!

1. Signs of Acid Reflux That Need to Be Aware Of

The rise of stomach acid into the esophagus can cause various symptoms that vary from person to person. However, there are some common signs often experienced by GERD sufferers:

• Burning sensation in the chest (heartburn): A burning feeling that is felt in the pit of the stomach up to the chest, often worsening when lying down or after eating oily and spicy foods.
• Chest pain: Often misinterpreted as a heart attack, chest pain due to GERD usually does not radiate to the arm or neck, but is centered in the area of the pit of the stomach.
• Chronic cough: Rising stomach acid can irritate the throat, causing a persistent cough that is difficult to cure even after taking cough medicine.
• Difficulties swallowing (dysphagia): A sensation of something stuck in the throat due to irritation of the esophageal lining.
• Bad breath: If stomach acid reaches the mouth, it can cause bad breath that is hard to eliminate, especially when burping.
• Nausea and vomiting: Regurgitation of stomach acid often triggers ongoing nausea, especially after eating large portions.
• Shortness of breath: The rise of stomach acid can cause irritation in the respiratory tract, leading to a feeling of tightness in the chest and difficulty breathing.

2. Causes and Triggers of Increased Stomach Acid

There are various factors that can trigger an increase in stomach acid, ranging from lifestyle to certain medical conditions. Some of them include:

• Certain foods and drinks: Consuming fatty, spicy, acidic foods, chocolate, coffee, or carbonated drinks can increase stomach acid production.
• Poor eating habits: Eating large portions, eating too quickly, or lying down immediately after eating can trigger acid reflux.
• Obesity: Being overweight can increase pressure on the stomach, pushing stomach acid up into the esophagus.
• Smoking: Nicotine in cigarettes can weaken the lower esophageal sphincter, increasing the risk of acid reflux.
• Pregnancy: Hormonal changes and pressure on the abdomen due to fetal development can trigger GERD during pregnancy.

3. How to Naturally Overcome Increased Stomach Acid

When experiencing symptoms of acid reflux, the following steps can help alleviate complaints:

• Loosen clothing: Reduce pressure on the stomach by loosening tight belts or pants.
• Sit upright: An upright sitting position helps prevent stomach acid from rising further into the esophagus.
• Chew gum: Chewing non-mint gum can increase saliva production, which helps neutralize stomach acid.
• Drink warm ginger or plain water: Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe irritation in the digestive tract.
• Elevate the head position while sleeping: Use an extra pillow to keep the head higher than the chest while sleeping.

4. Treatment for Managing Acid Reflux

If lifestyle changes are not enough, the following medications can be used to manage acid reflux:

• Antacids: Function to quickly neutralize stomach acid.
• H2-receptor blockers: Reduce stomach acid production for a longer duration.
• Proton pump inhibitors (PPI): Inhibit stomach acid production more effectively than antacids.
• Prescription medications from a doctor: If GERD symptoms are severe, a doctor may prescribe stronger medications or recommend specific medical procedures.

5. How to Prevent Acid Reflux from Recurring

Prevention is the best step to ensure that acid reflux symptoms do not frequently recur. Here are some habits that can help prevent acid reflux:

• Maintain ideal body weight: Obesity increases the risk of GERD, so it is important to maintain a healthy diet and exercise regularly.
• Avoid trigger foods: Reduce the consumption of spicy, fatty, and acidic foods that can worsen reflux.
• Do not lie down immediately after eating: Allow a gap of about 2-3 hours after eating before lying down.
• Quit smoking: Stopping smoking can help improve the function of the esophageal valve.
• Consume easily digestible foods: Vegetables like spinach and broccoli, and fruits like bananas or papayas are good for stomach health.

6. Questions and Answers About Acid Reflux

1. What is the difference between GERD and regular acid reflux?

GERD is a chronic condition that occurs repeatedly, while regular acid reflux can happen occasionally due to certain factors like food or stress.

2. Can acid reflux be completely cured?

With lifestyle changes and appropriate treatment, GERD symptoms can be controlled and prevented from recurring frequently.

3. Can acid reflux cause serious complications?

If not treated, GERD can lead to esophagitis (inflammation of the esophagus), esophageal ulcers, and in extreme cases, esophageal cancer.

(kpl/rmt)