Symptoms
Heartburn (a burning sensation in the chest, usually after eating, which might be worse at night)
Regurgitation (the sensation of acid or food coming back up into the throat or mouth)
Sour taste in the mouth
Bloating
Nausea
Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
Chronic cough
Laryngitis (hoarseness)
Feeling of a lump in the throat
Causes
Lower Esophageal Sphincter (LES) Dysfunction: The LES is a muscle that acts as a valve between the esophagus and the stomach. If it doesn't close properly, stomach acid can reflux into the esophagus.
Hiatal Hernia: A condition in which part of the stomach protrudes through the diaphragm.
Dietary Factors: Fatty or fried foods, chocolate, caffeine, alcohol, spicy foods, citrus fruits, and tomatoes can trigger acid reflux.
Large Meals: Eating large meals can increase stomach pressure and promote reflux.
Lying Down After Eating: Lying down soon after eating allows stomach acid to flow more easily into the esophagus.
Obesity: Excess weight can increase pressure on the stomach.
Pregnancy: Hormonal changes and increased abdominal pressure during pregnancy can contribute to reflux.
Smoking: Smoking weakens the LES.
Certain Medications: Some medications, such as certain painkillers, can relax the LES.
Is Communicable
Acidity (acid reflux/GERD) is not communicable. It is not caused by an infectious agent and cannot be spread from person to person.
Precautions
Dietary Changes: Avoid trigger foods (fatty foods, chocolate, caffeine, alcohol, spicy foods, citrus fruits, tomatoes).
Smaller Meals: Eat smaller, more frequent meals.
Avoid Eating Before Bed: Do not lie down for at least 2-3 hours after eating.
Elevate Head of Bed: Raise the head of your bed 6-8 inches.
Weight Management: Maintain a healthy weight.
Quit Smoking: Stop smoking.
Avoid Tight Clothing: Wear loose-fitting clothing.
Limit Alcohol Intake: Reduce alcohol consumption.
Stay Upright After Eating: Remain upright for at least 30 minutes after meals.
How long does an outbreak last?
The duration of an acidity episode can vary. Occasional heartburn may last for a few minutes to a few hours. Chronic GERD can cause symptoms that persist for weeks, months, or even years if left untreated. Flare-ups can occur periodically, influenced by diet, lifestyle, and other factors.
How is it diagnosed?
Medical History and Physical Exam: A doctor will ask about symptoms and medical history.
Upper Endoscopy: A thin, flexible tube with a camera is inserted into the esophagus to visualize its lining.
Esophageal pH Monitoring: Measures the amount of acid in the esophagus over a period of time (usually 24 hours).
Esophageal Manometry: Measures the pressure of the esophageal muscles and LES.
Barium Swallow: X-rays are taken after swallowing a barium solution to visualize the esophagus and stomach.
Timeline of Symptoms
Immediately After Eating: Heartburn, regurgitation, and bloating are common.
Nighttime: Symptoms often worsen at night due to lying down.
Chronic: Persistent symptoms (heartburn, cough, hoarseness) may indicate GERD.
Long-Term, Untreated GERD: Can lead to complications such as esophagitis, Barrett's esophagus, and esophageal strictures.
Important Considerations
Lifestyle Modifications: Lifestyle changes are often the first line of defense against acidity.
Medication Management: Long-term use of PPIs may have potential side effects (e.g., increased risk of bone fractures, nutrient deficiencies). Discuss medication use with a doctor.
Underlying Conditions: Acidity can sometimes be a symptom of other underlying medical conditions.
When to See a Doctor: Seek medical attention if symptoms are severe, frequent, or do not improve with over-the-counter medications. Also seek medical attention if you have difficulty swallowing, unintentional weight loss, or bloody vomit or stool.
Pregnancy and Acidity: Acidity is common during pregnancy. Discuss safe treatment options with a doctor.