WHAT IS ACIDITY ? :
Acidity, also known as acid reflux or heartburn, is a common digestive disorder characterized by a burning sensation in the chest or throat. It occurs when stomach acid flows back up into the esophagus, the tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach. This upward movement of stomach acid is called acid reflux.
SYMPTOMS FOR ACIDITY :
1. Burning Sensation: A burning feeling in the chest, often described as heartburn, is a hallmark symptom of acidity. It typically occurs after eating and may worsen when lying down or bending over.
2. Regurgitation: A sour or bitter taste in the mouth, accompanied by the sensation of stomach acid coming up into the throat or mouth.
3. Chest Pain: Some people may experience chest pain or discomfort that can mimic the symptoms of a heart attack. It is important to rule out any cardiac issues if you experience chest pain.
4. Difficulty Swallowing: Acid reflux can cause a feeling of food getting stuck in the throat or a sensation of tightness in the chest.
5. Sour or Bitter Taste: The regurgitation of stomach acid can leave a sour or bitter taste in the mouth, even without obvious regurgitation.
6. Dry Cough or Sore Throat: Acid reflux can irritate the throat and cause a persistent dry cough or a chronic sore throat.
7. Hoarseness or Voice Changes: The irritation of the throat from acid reflux can lead to hoarseness or changes in the voice.
8. Laryngitis: Inflammation of the voice box (larynx) can occur due to acid reflux, leading to a raspy or strained voice.
9. Difficulty Sleeping: The discomfort caused by acid reflux may make it difficult to fall asleep or stay asleep.
CAUSES FOR ACIDITY:
Acidity, also known as acid reflux or heartburn, occurs when stomach acid flows back up into the esophagus. There are several factors that can contribute to acidity, including:
1. Weak Lower Esophageal Sphincter (LES): The LES is a muscular ring that separates the stomach from the esophagus. If the LES is weakened or relaxes inappropriately, it allows stomach acid to flow back up into the esophagus, leading to acidity.
2. Hiatal Hernia: A hiatal hernia occurs when a portion of the stomach protrudes through the diaphragm into the chest cavity. This can weaken the LES and disrupt the normal flow of stomach acid, contributing to acidity.
3. Certain Foods and Beverages: Consuming certain foods and beverages can trigger or worsen acidity symptoms. These may include spicy foods, fatty or greasy foods, citrus fruits, tomatoes, onions, garlic, chocolate, caffeine, alcohol, and carbonated beverages.
4. Overeating or Large Meals: Consuming large meals or overeating can put pressure on the stomach, causing the contents, including stomach acid, to reflux back up into the esophagus.
5. Obesity or Excess Weight: Excess weight, especially around the abdomen, can increase pressure on the stomach, leading to acid reflux.
6. Pregnancy: Hormonal changes during pregnancy, along with the growing uterus, can put pressure on the stomach, causing acid reflux symptoms.
7. Smoking: Smoking weakens the LES and can irritate the lining of the esophagus, making it more susceptible to acidity.
8. Medications: Certain medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), aspirin, blood pressure medications, and some sedatives, can contribute to acidity symptoms.
9. Stress and Anxiety: Stress and anxiety can trigger or worsen acidity symptoms by affecting digestion and increasing stomach acid production.
10. Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), gastroparesis (delayed stomach emptying), and peptic ulcers, can cause chronic acidity.
WAYS TO GET RELIEF FROM ACIDITY:
1. Lifestyle Modifications:
- Avoid Trigger Foods: Identify and avoid foods that trigger your acid reflux symptoms, such as spicy, fatty, and acidic foods, as well as caffeine, alcohol, and carbonated beverages.
- Eat Smaller, More Frequent Meals: Opt for smaller portion sizes and eat more frequently throughout the day to reduce pressure on the stomach.
- Maintain a Healthy Weight: If you are overweight or obese, losing weight can help alleviate acidity symptoms.
- Avoid Eating Close to Bedtime: Allow at least 2-3 hours between your last meal or snack and bedtime to give your stomach time to digest.
- Elevate the Head of the Bed: Raise the head of your bed by using bed risers or placing a wedge pillow under your upper body to prevent stomach acid from flowing back up into the esophagus.
2. Dietary Changes:
- Eat a Balanced Diet: Incorporate a variety of whole foods, including fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats into your diet.
- Chew Food Thoroughly: Take the time to chew your food well, as this aids in digestion and can reduce the likelihood of acid reflux.
- Drink Plenty of Water: Staying hydrated can help dilute stomach acid and promote healthy digestion.
3. Manage Stress:
- Practice Stress-Reduction Techniques: Engage in activities that help you relax and manage stress, such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, yoga, or engaging in hobbies.
4. Posture and Body Mechanics:
- Maintain Good Posture: Sit and stand upright to keep the stomach in a proper position and reduce pressure on the LES.
- Avoid Bending Over: Avoid activities that involve bending over or putting pressure on the abdomen after eating.
5. Medications and Remedies:
- Antacids: Over-the-counter antacid medications can help neutralize stomach acid and provide temporary relief from acidity symptoms.
- Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs) and H2 Blockers: If symptoms persist, your healthcare provider may prescribe medications that reduce the production of stomach acid.
