Acidity
Acidity, or acid reflux, occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing discomfort. It is a common condition that affects people of all ages and can range from mild irritation to severe pain.
Symptoms
The most common symptoms of acidity include:
- Heartburn: A burning sensation in the chest or throat, especially after meals or at night.
- Regurgitation: Sour or bitter-tasting acid backing up into the mouth.
- Indigestion: Feeling of fullness, bloating, or nausea after eating.
- Belching and Flatulence: Excessive burping and passing gas.
- Sore Throat and Cough: Irritation due to acid reaching the throat.
- Difficulty Swallowing: A sensation of food being stuck in the throat.
Causes
Acidity is primarily caused by lifestyle factors and medical conditions. Common causes include:
- Diet: Spicy, fried, or fatty foods, caffeine, carbonated drinks, and alcohol.
- Overeating: Eating large meals or lying down soon after eating.
- Stress: Increased stress levels can exacerbate acidity.
- Smoking: Weakens the lower esophageal sphincter, allowing acid reflux.
- Obesity: Excess weight puts pressure on the stomach.
- Medical Conditions: Hiatal hernia, peptic ulcers, and gastroparesis.
- Medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and certain antibiotics can irritate the stomach lining.
Treatment
Treatment for acidity involves lifestyle changes, medications, and in rare cases, surgery:
Lifestyle Modifications:
- Avoid trigger foods and beverages.
- Eat smaller meals at regular intervals.
- Maintain a healthy weight.
- Avoid lying down for at least two hours after meals.
- Elevate the head of the bed to prevent nighttime reflux.
Medications:
- Antacids: Provide quick relief by neutralizing stomach acid.
- H2 Blockers: Reduce acid production (e.g., ranitidine, famotidine).
- Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs): Stronger acid reducers (e.g., omeprazole, pantoprazole).
- Prokinetics: Improve stomach emptying and reduce reflux.
Surgical Intervention (for severe cases): Fundoplication, where the top of the stomach is wrapped around the esophagus to strengthen the sphincter.
