Acid Reflux: Causes, Symptoms, and Effective Management

Acid reflux, often experienced as a sour taste in the mouth or a burning sensation in the chest, is primarily caused by excessive stomach acid. This condition is commonly seen in several scenarios, each contributing to the irritation and discomfort associated with acid reflux.

Common Triggers of Acid Reflux

Dietary Choices

Consuming hard-to-digest foods, excessive sweets, or drinking strong tea, coffee, and other caffeinated beverages can stimulate the overproduction of stomach acid. This acid can irritate the stomach lining and lead to acid reflux symptoms. It is important to be mindful of what you eat and drink, especially if you are prone to acid reflux.

Delayed Gastric Emptying

When the digestive system lacks sufficient motility, the stomach takes longer to empty its contents. Additionally, a weakened natural clearance function between the stomach and esophagus can contribute to increased stomach acid levels, resulting in acid reflux. Improving digestion and promoting timely gastric emptying are key to managing this issue.

Underlying Medical Conditions

Certain health issues such as peptic ulcer disease, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), gastrinoma, and chronic gastritis can weaken the mucosal defense mechanisms of the stomach. This weakening allows for increased acid and gastrin secretion, which can cause acid regurgitation. Identifying and treating these underlying conditions is essential for long-term relief.

Managing Acid Reflux Through Lifestyle Changes

For individuals who frequently experience acid reflux, adopting healthier eating habits is crucial. Eating smaller, more frequent meals and avoiding overeating can significantly reduce symptoms. It's also important to steer clear of raw, cold, spicy, or overly seasoned foods that may aggravate the stomach. Additionally, quitting smoking, avoiding alcohol, and limiting intake of strong tea, coffee, and carbonated drinks can help protect the stomach lining from further irritation.

Medical Treatments for Severe Cases

In more severe cases, a gastroscopy may be necessary to determine the exact cause of acid reflux. Medications such as omeprazole and cimetidine are effective in reducing acid production, while others like colloidal bismuth pectin and sucralfate help protect the stomach lining. Antacids like sodium bicarbonate can neutralize excess acid, and prokinetic agents such as domperidone and cisapride can enhance gastric motility and improve digestion, helping to alleviate symptoms and promote overall digestive health.