Your stomach entrance has a valve that is like a muscle ring. It is referred to as the low esophageal sphincter or LES. The LES closes when food goes through it. In case it does not close all through the way, or if it opens, the stomach acid can move up into the esophagus.
The above scenario results in chest discomfort or burning, which is called heartburn. If these symptoms of acid reflux occur more than twice each week, then you may be suffering from acid reflux disease and gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD.
What is the cause of acid reflux disease?
- Lying down after having a meal.
- Being obese or overweight.
- Have snacks around bedtime.
- Bending over the waist and having a heavy meal.
- Being pregnant.
- Take muscle relaxers, medications for blood pressure, ibuprofen, and aspirin.
- Smoking.
- Drinking beverages like tea, coffee, carbonated drinks, and alcohol.
- Eating foods that are spicy, fatty, and having onions, garlic, mint, chocolate, tomato, and citrus.
What are the symptoms of acid reflux disease?
- Regurgitation; a bitter or sour-tasting acid getting back up into your mouth or throat.
- Heartburn; a discomfort or burning pain that moves from the stomach up to the abdomen and chest, even up to the throat.
- Dry cough, hoarseness, and wheezing.
- Nausea.
- Hiccups.
- Burping.
- Bloating.
- Dysphagia; sensation of food stuck at your throat.
- Sudden weight loss.
- Pain that gets worse while bending.
How can you treat acid reflux disease?
- Eat two to three hours before you lie down.
- Eat small meals.
- Quit your smoking.
- Try losing weight by exercising and by making changes in your diet.
- Avoid food triggers.
Conclusion:-
If you have acid reflux recurrently, you can contact Dr. Ujjwal Zambare in Pune.