Acidity and Acid Reflux
Also called acidity, acid reflux, heartburn, gas, gerd
What this condition is
Acidity, also called acid reflux or GERD, happens when acid from the stomach flows back up into the food pipe. A small muscle normally keeps the stomach contents from coming back up, but when it relaxes too easily, acid rises and causes a burning feeling in the chest or throat. It is very common and is often linked to meals, timing and lifestyle. While usually not serious, frequent acidity can be uncomfortable and tiring. The reassuring part is that simple changes to how and when you eat, along with medicine when needed, can bring great relief.
Signs to watch for
- A burning feeling in the chest, often after meals
- Sour or bitter fluid rising into the throat or mouth
- Frequent burping
- A feeling of food coming back up
- Discomfort in the upper abdomen
- Sometimes a dry cough or hoarse voice
What to do
- Eat smaller meals at regular times
- Have your dinner two to three hours before lying down
- Stay upright for a while after eating
- Raise the head end of your bed if night symptoms trouble you
- Maintain a healthy weight
What to avoid
- Avoid very spicy, oily and fried foods if they trigger you
- Cut down on tea, coffee, fizzy drinks and citrus if they worsen symptoms
- Do not lie down or sleep right after eating
- Avoid tobacco and limit alcohol
- Do not overeat, especially late at night
Ways to feel better day to day
- Notice and note down which foods trigger you, and reduce them
- Eat slowly and chew well
- Take a short gentle walk after meals instead of lying down
- Wear loose clothing around the waist
- Manage stress, which can worsen acidity
Speak to a doctor if
- Difficulty or pain when swallowing
- Vomiting blood or passing black stools
- Unexplained weight loss
- Chest pain, especially with sweating or breathlessness, which needs urgent care
- Symptoms that continue despite treatment
Your next step
Turn this into a plan that is yours
Everything above is general. Your dose, your targets and your test schedule depend on your age, your reports and the other conditions you live with.
