Acidity is a common functional gastrointestinal problem that is developed due to excess stomach acid released. Acidity is a widely known phenomenon and is believed to impact millions of people in India. Acidity is characterized by a burning sensation or discomfort in the chest or throat often referred to as heartburn. A lot of times regurgitation of stomach acid is also involved. While occasional acid reflux is normal, chronic acidity can lead to various complications and interfere with daily life.
Acid Reflux occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter, a muscular valve that separates the esophagus from the stomach, weakens or malfunctions, allowing stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus. This reflux of acid can cause irritation and inflammation, leading to symptoms such as heartburn, a sour taste in the mouth, and difficulty swallowing. Let’s look at the questions that bother people the most.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the common causes of acidity?
Acidity can have multiple causes, and it is important to understand these triggers to effectively manage the condition. The biggest contributor to acidity is dietary habits. Spicy and masala-laden foods, such as curries, pickles, and chutneys, can often lead to increased acid production in the stomach. Fried, oily and fatty foods also lead to increased acid production. Beverages like tea, coffee, and carbonated drinks can all lead to acidity.
Other lifestyle factors that contribute to acidity include eating large meals and lying down immediately after a meal. The stomach requires time to properly digest food, and lying down or reclining can allow stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus more easily. The time between the last meal/snack and sleeping should be at least 2-3 hours. This time frame allows the food to be digested.
Furthermore, certain habits like smoking and alcohol consumption can irritate the stomach lining and lead to increased acid production..
Q: What are the symptoms of acidity?
- Heartburn is a very common symptom of acidity. The burning sensation in the chest mostly after having a meal is a very common sign of acidity. This burning sensation may worsen when lying down or bending over. It occurs due to the reflux of stomach acid into the esophagus, causing irritation and discomfort.
- Acid reflux can lead to the backflow of stomach acid into the throat or mouth. This can cause a sour or bitter taste, often accompanied by a sensation of fluid coming up from the stomach.
- Indigestion refers to discomfort or pain in the upper abdomen. It can manifest as a feeling of bloating, fullness, or discomfort after meals. Some individuals may also experience belching or excessive gas.
- Sometimes acid reflux leads to the growth of tissue in the food pipe, narrowing it down. This can cause difficulty swallowing, known as dysphagia. Individuals may experience a sensation of food getting stuck in the throat or a feeling of throat tightness.
Q: How can I prevent acidity after consuming spicy food?
Spicy food is extremely common in the Indian diet and often we consume it in large quantities
- Once you have consumed the food, you should have something that neutralizes the effects of spice and reduce acidity. For example, consuming a small amount of yogurt, buttermilk, or a glass of cold milk before or after a spicy meal can help soothe the stomach and provide relief.
- Avoid lying down immediately after eating. After you have consumed the food it can go worse if you lie down. Give your body time to digest the food by remaining upright for at least two to three hours after a meal. This helps prevent the backflow of stomach acid into the esophagus.
- Go for a walk. Taking a small walk can increase the digestion of the food and the acid released can break down the food.
Q: Can stress or anxiety contribute to acidity?
Stress is also a major contributor to Acidity. Stress hormones cortisol directly impacts the digestive system and can stimulate higher production of stomach acid.
Furthermore, stress can also lead to unhealthy coping mechanisms such as overeating, consuming comfort foods that may trigger acidity, or adopting poor eating habits like eating quickly and not chewing food properly.
To alleviate stress, we can do the following –
- Engage in activities such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, or yoga to help relax your body and mind.
- Physical activity can help reduce stress levels and promote overall well-being, including better digestion.
- Engage in activities that you enjoy and help you relax, such as hobbies, spending time with loved ones, or taking breaks from work.
- If stress or anxiety becomes overwhelming, consider reaching out to a mental health professional who can provide guidance and support.
Q: Can acidity be a symptom of a more serious underlying condition?
Yes, acidity can be at times a signal of a more serious condition. GERD is a functional GI disorder that is characterized by acidity. If the acidity is persistent and symptoms like heartburn, regurgitation and chest pain are also persistent, then it could be due to an underlying condition.
If you experience these symptoms regularly or they significantly impact your daily life, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis.
Acidity could also be happening because of organic diseases like hiatal hernia. This occurs when the part of the stomach protrudes into the chest through the diaphragm. Peptic Ulcers are sores that develop on the stomach linings. Acidity can worsen the symptoms. Esophagus can also be inflamed sometimes due to repeated acidity and is important to check with a doctor to make sure of the more serious conditions.
Q: Can certain medications contribute to acidity?
- Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs are used for reducing inflammation and pain. However, these drugs can disrupt the stomach lining and cause acidity
- Certain antibiotics, especially when taken for an extended duration, can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria in the stomach and lead to increased acid production.
It is always advisable to check with the healthcare provider before taking any medication..
Q: Can acidity be managed through dietary modifications alone?
Acidity can be managed through dietary modifications to a large extent.
- Eliminating common culprits like spicy food, fatty food, processed food, and carbonated drinks can bring a lot of relief. Identifying the foods that do not work for you is the next step. A lot of people are intolerant towards milk, tea, and coffee and it is advisable to find the trigger foods with the help of a nutritionist. Eliminating these trigger foods can be of huge help.
- Add healthy foods. Eating more fiber like fruits, and vegetables also help in managing acidity. Adding probiotics in the form of curd, buttermilk is also important.
- Chew your food thoroughly and eat slowly to aid digestion. Avoid overeating or eating too close to bedtime, as lying down immediately after a meal can contribute to acid reflux.
- Drink a lot of water. Drinking a lot of water is a great way to manage acidity in the long run.
Consultation with a healthcare professional is recommended to determine the most appropriate diet plan.
Q: Is it safe to self-medicate for acidity with over-the-counter antacids?
Antacids work well when it comes to neutralizing stomach acid in the body. They work well with mild acidity but if the acidity is severe and chronic it is better to seek a doctor.
- Antacids are generally safe for short-term use, but they should not be relied upon as a long-term solution. If you experience frequent or persistent acidity symptoms, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and guidance.
- Excessive or prolonged use of antacids can have side effects and may mask underlying conditions that require medical attention.
- If you are taking any other medication then it is extremely important to take antacids wisely because they might react with some other medicine.
Remember, self-medication should always be approached with caution. If symptoms persist or worsen, it is important to seek medical advice for a proper diagnosis and personalized treatment plan.
Q: Can acidity be cured completely?
Acidity is a functional disorder that needs to be managed. It can be managed through a multi-fold approach of good diet, exercise and stress management.
- Lifestyle Modifications: Eliminating common culprits like spicy food, fatty food, processed food, and carbonated drinks can bring a lot of relief. Identifying the foods that do not work for you is the next step. A lot of people are intolerant towards milk, tea, and coffee and it is advisable to find the trigger foods with the help of a nutritionist. Eliminating these trigger foods can be of huge help. Add healthy foods. Eating more fiber like fruits, and vegetables also help in managing acidity. Adding probiotics in the form of curd, buttermilk is also important. Chew your food thoroughly and eat slowly to aid digestion. Avoid overeating or eating too close to bedtime, as lying down immediately after a meal can contribute to acid reflux. Drink a lot of water. Drinking a lot of water is a great way to manage acidity in the long run.
- Medications: Depending on the severity of symptoms, your healthcare provider may prescribe medications to reduce stomach acid production, promote healing of the esophagus, or improve the function of the lower esophageal sphincter. It is important to take medications as prescribed and follow up with your healthcare provider regularly.
- Exercise: Exercise is a great way to manage acidity. Exercise stimulates digestion, and keeps the stress levels controlled.
Q: Are there any natural remedies for acidity
A lot of foods have found some relevance in terms of managing acidity:
- Ginger(adrak) has natural anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe the digestive system. Consuming ginger in a non-tea format can work wonders.
- Aloe vera has a soothing effect on the digestive tract and can help alleviate symptoms of acid reflux.
- Chamomile tea has calming properties that can help reduce stress and relieve acidity symptoms.
Conclusion
In conclusion, understanding acidity and its management is crucial for maintaining digestive health and overall well-being. If you experience persistent or severe acidity symptoms, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for a comprehensive evaluation and personalized treatment plan.
By staying informed, making positive lifestyle choices, and seeking medical guidance when necessary, you can effectively manage acidity and enjoy a healthier digestive system.
