Acidity is a common problem these days. It is a medical condition when overproduction of acid takes place in the body by the glands of the stomach. Different symptoms are there, like gastric inflammation, stomach ulcer, heartburn, and indigestion.
Many factors are responsible for it, like lack of physical sports activities, smoking, stress, alcohol consumption, and so on. People consuming very spicy and oily food are the victim of acidity. Moreover, the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can also make a person experience acidity.
People look out for symptoms of acidity and then consider the treatment. At home, they take antacids to get rid of it. But taking and acid regularly is not a solution, so it is important to approach the gastro doctor for treatment.
When Do Acidity Symptoms Occur
Acidity is frequently caused by the following symptoms:
- After eating a heavy meal
- When bending over or lifting an object
- When lying down, especially on your back
Common Acidity Symptoms
There are a number of acid reflux or Acidity symptoms, such as heartburn, regurgitation, and dyspepsia.
Heartburn
Heartburn is a pain or discomfort that can move up from your stomach to your chest. Other symptoms include the burning sensation in the throat, known as gargling. Heartburn doesn’t affect your heart itself, but rather the esophagus.
Regurgitation
Bitter or sour tastes can lead to esophageal irritation. This is most noticeable before using the bathroom after consuming acidic foods, but sometimes this irritation can linger for some time afterward.
Dyspepsia
A lot of people with acid reflux disease also have a syndrome called dyspepsia. Dyspepsia is a general term for stomach discomfort. The symptoms of dyspepsia include:
- Stomach fullness or bloating
- Burping
- Upper abdominal pain and discomfort
- Nausea after eating
Heartburn in combination with certain symptoms may be a sign that stomach acid has inflamed your esophagus (also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease). When acid damages the lining of your esophagus, it can cause bleeding. Over time, could cause cancer to grow in your esophagus.
Acid reflux is a very common and non-serious condition, but it’s also one that can cause some discomfort. Reports show that antacids and lifestyle changes, such as taking it easy on alcohol or caffeine, can often control symptoms of acid reflux.
Things Make Acid Reflux Symptoms Worse
Some foods may make it worse, while some might help. To figure out what food to steer clear of, try looking at the list below:
- Peppermint
- Tomatoes
- Caffeinated drinks or alcohol
- Spicy, fatty, or fried foods
- Citrus fruits
- Chocolate
- Garlic and onion
Cause of Acidity?
The stomach usually produces gastric acid that helps indigestion. The corrosive effects of these acids are balanced by the production of prostaglandins and bicarbonates that are secreted into the mucous.
Other factors that cause acidity include:
- Consuming non-vegetarian and spicy food.
- excessive stress.
- Consuming too much alcohol.
- frequent smoking
- Stomach disorders such as stomach tumors, gastroesophageal reflux disease, and peptic ulcers.
- Medicines such as NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs).
Many people experience gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, at night. This often produces a more intense level of pain, compared to other times of the day. Night-time GERD is especially damaging because the events that take place make it difficult for your esophagus to heal itself in order to prevent future problems.
Note: The majority of pregnant women experience heartburn in their 3rd trimester, which is when the fetus becomes large enough to press on the stomach. Heartburn is caused by increased hormones and pressure from the growing embryo. It usually disappears after given birth or around 6-7 months given pregnancy progress.
Here we have discussed Acidity or Acid reflux in detail. If you are facing any difficulty, the time has come to approach the gastro as soon as possible.
If you are a Rajasthan resident, you are fortunate that you can approach Dr. Shankar Dhaka. He is the best Gastroenterologist in Jaipur with years of experience.
Most Asked Questions:
Q. 1. What are the signs that I may be experiencing acidity?
Ans: The signs of acidity are fairly easy to spot. They include excessive fatigue, pain in the joints, loss of appetite, weight loss or gain, nausea and diarrhea, heartburn and indigestion, fibromyalgia symptoms like headache and back pain, etc.
If you are experiencing these symptoms then it is probably time for you to visit your doctor because the acidity can lead to other medical problems if left untreated.
Q. 2. What are the health risks associated with Acidity?
Ans: The term “acidity” can refer to a range of reactions – from a terrible stomachache caused by too much acid in the stomach to a vigorous athlete’s workout. The latter is not always bad though!
Acidic foods have been around for thousands of years, but today we have a much better understanding of the health risks associated with high-acid foods.
For example, high-acid foods can cause osteoporosis and can also weaken your bones and joints. If you’re looking for healthier options, it may be time to switch from acidic drinks to alkaline water or eat more alkaline fruits and vegetables.
Q. 3. Are there any natural remedies for Acidity?
Ans: The most common natural remedy for Acidity is eating yogurt with live cultures. Other options are eating more fruits and vegetables that are alkalizing to help balance your acidity levels.
Q. 4. How does Acidity affect the body?
Ans: Acidity is the term used to describe the sour taste and pungent smell. Its production is caused by a bacteria known as H. pylori, which live in the stomach and cause inflammation and ulcers.
The pH of the human body needs to be at a range of around 7.35-.7.4
The signs and symptoms of acidity are:
- Heartburn or heartburn that starts suddenly or that increases in intensity
- Regurgitation or spitting up blood
- Indigestion, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
Q. 5. What are some ways to reduce Acidity?
Ans: Acidity and its causes are broadly one of the most common health problems.
Some ways of reducing Acidity:
- Change your water and food habits.
- Avoid sugar, alcohol, and caffeine.
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
- Maintain a healthy weight.