Burning sensation in your chest post a meal, sour taste in your mouth, or that bloated, heavy sensation we often ignore are not just gas or minor digestive issues. Medical experts warn that frequent acidity is not something you should ignore; it may be your system’s way of signalling an underlying medical condition, which, if left untreated, can lead to severe health problems.
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What is Acidity?
Acidity is a common digestive problem that most of us experience at some point. It develops when stomach acids travel up into the oesophagus, the food pipe that carries food from the mouth to the stomach. The lower oesophageal sphincter (LES) muscles function like a gateway that opens to let food enter the stomach and closes immediately afterwards to prevent acid from entering. When the valve weakens or gets damaged, stomach acid can travel upward, irritating the oesophageal lining and triggering heartburn.
Mild acidity that develops occasionally after overeating or having spicy, oily foods is common and harmless; repeated episodes are a cause for concern. If these symptoms appear frequently, it could be a sign of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD).
Early Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore
Identifying the signs early can help one take preventive measures. Look out for:
A burning pain or discomfort in the chest that often occurs after having meals.
Sour or bitter taste in the mouth, especially in the early morning or when lying down.
Also Read: Hyperacidity: 5 Incredible Natural Remedies To Get Rid Of Acid Dyspepsia
Continuous cough or hoarseness, where acid starts irritating the throat and vocal cords.
Problem swallowing food is caused by persistent acid reflux that inflames or constricts the oesophagus.
Excess gas formation are signs of poor digestion or acid imbalance, which causes bloating or burping.
Nausea after meals is an early warning sign of an underlying issue.
Why Ignoring Acidity is Dangerous?
Acidity, if left untreated, can cause lasting damage to the gastrointestinal system. Some of the severe complications include:
Esophagitis is a condition that results in inflammation of the oesophagus lining.
Oesophageal ulcers are painful sores caused by acid erosion.
Oesophageal stricture is a condition where the oesophagus becomes narrowed, leading to difficulty in swallowing.
Barrett’s Oesophagus is a disorder in which the normal lining of the oesophagus alters, increasing the risk of developing oesophageal cancer.
How to Prevent Acidity?
Simple lifestyle changes and dietary alterations can mitigate the symptoms of acidity and prevent complications like GERD.
Try to have smaller, more frequent meals instead of three heavy ones; this aids to prevent pressure build-up in the stomach.
Eliminate triggering foods like spicy, fried and junk foods, coffee, citrus fruits, chocolate and alcohol.
Stay upright for at least 3 hours after food, instead of lying down or going straight to bed, which allows the body the needed time to digest before resting.
Keep your head elevated 6-8 inches higher to avoid acid from flowing back while sleeping.
Also Read; Hyperacidity/Acid Dyspepsia: Causes, Symptoms And Treatment
Try to lose extra weight and maintain weight, as surplus fat around the abdomen adds pressure on the stomach.
Quit Smoking as it damages the LES muscles and affects overall well-being.
Manage stress by practising yoga, deep breathing exercises or meditation.
When To Seek Medical Help?
Mild acidity that occurs now and then is not a cause for concern; however, if you observe symptoms, it’s time to seek prompt medical attention:
Acidity or heartburn occurring more than twice a week.
Problem swallowing food.
Persistent chest pain.
Sudden weight loss.
Vomiting blood or passing black stools.
These may be signs of a more serious medical condition that needs prompt diagnosis and treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Acidity Cause Chest Pain Like A Heart Attack?
Yes. At times, acidity can cause chest discomfort very similar to a heart attack. However, sudden chest pain or any severe issue should be checked promptly to rule out other heart problems.
Can Healthy People Get Acidity?
Acidity can happen to anyone, even healthy adults. If the issue persists, it is cause for concern.
Does Drinking Water Help Acidity?
Drinking water offers short-term relief by diluting stomach acid; it is not a permanent remedy.
References:
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
Danisa M Clarrett 1, Christine Hachem 2,
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6140167/
https://www.ijpsjournal.com/article/Review+Article+On+Hyperacidity+
The relationship of gastroesophageal reflux with nutritional habits and mental disorders
Aliye Özenoğlu, Nejla Anul, Büşra Özçelikç
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2666149723000208
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