Ease the Burn, Live Comfortably
Acid Reflux or heartburn occurs when the stomach acids move upward toward the food pipe (esophagus). Although not a very serious condition, acid reflux can cause a lot of discomfort and a bitter taste in the mouth.
When Acid reflux keeps recurring, often it is called gastroesophageal reflux disorder (GERD)
What are the common triggers that cause acid reflux to flare up?
Acid Reflux can be triggered by a variety of lifestyle and dietary factors.
Dietary triggers- Spicy foods, fatty or fried dishes, citrus fruits, chocolate, caffeine, and carbonated drinks.
Lifestyle habits- Eating large meals, lying down right after eating, or eating too late at night can also cause symptoms to worsen.
Other contributors- smoking, being overweight, stress, and certain medications that relax the lower esophageal sphincter.
Identifying and avoiding personal triggers is key to managing acid reflux and reducing flare-ups effectively.
How can I control an acid reflux attack?
If you're experiencing an acid reflux flare-up, there are a few quick steps you can take to ease the discomfort:
Sit or stand upright – Avoid lying down, as gravity helps avoid stomach acid from rising.
Sip water slowly – It can help wash acid back down into your stomach.
Chew sugar-free gum – This increases saliva production, which can help neutralise acid.
Avoid trigger foods and drinks – Skip spicy, greasy, or acidic foods, along with caffeine or soda.
Take an antacid – Over-the-counter medications like Nexium, Esomeprazole, Omeprazole, Lansoprazole, and Pantoprazole can provide quick relief.
Do I have Acid Reflux?
If you experience one or more of the following symptoms, there is a chance you are suffering from Acid Reflux;
Burping, bloating, or feeling too full too quickly
A burning feeling in your chest (heartburn), especially after eating
A sour or bitter taste in your mouth
Difficulty swallowing and a feeling of food stuck in the throat
Nausea or a chronic cough
How can I treat Acid Reflux?
While Acid reflux can be very uncomfortable and unbearable at times, it is very much treatable through some simple actions and taking medicines in extreme cases.
Eating smaller meals, avoiding trigger foods like spicy or fatty dishes, not lying down right after eating, and maintaining a healthy weight can all help reduce symptoms.
Quitting smoking, limiting alcohol, and elevating the head of your bed may also offer relief. If symptoms persist, doctors may recommend medications like antacids, H2 blockers, or proton pump inhibitors to reduce stomach acid and prevent flare-ups.
Other than the common symptom of a burning sensation in the chest, acid reflux also causes;
Sour or bitter taste in the mouth
Bloating or burping
Difficulty swallowing
Sensation of a lump in the throat
Sour liquid in the throat
Acid reflux can be managed with a combination of lifestyle changes and medications. Common treatments include:
Dietary and lifestyle changes – Avoid trigger foods, eat smaller meals, maintain a healthy weight, and stay upright after eating.
Antacids – Provide quick, short-term relief by neutralizing stomach acid.
Medication – Nexium, Esomeprazole, Omeprazole, Lansoprazole, and Pantoprazole.
H2 blockers – Reduce acid production (e.g., ranitidine or famotidine).
Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs) – Stronger medications that block acid production and help heal the esophagus (e.g., omeprazole or pantoprazole).
Surgery – In rare cases, procedures like fundoplication may be recommended if medications aren’t effective.
If your symptoms of Acid Reflux continue to persist, your doctor might prescribe over-the counter remedies like Antacids that give quick relief from heart burns. The damage to the esophagus however needs a more comprehensive diagnosis.
In some cases, tests may be recommended to confirm the diagnosis or rule out other conditions:
A thin tube with a camera is used to check the esophagus and stomach for inflammation or damage.
Measures acid levels in the esophagus over 24 hours.
Checks how well the muscles of your esophagus are working.
A quick and free evaluation by ‘Better Meds’ can help you get the best treatment for your condition. All you have to do is answer a few questions about your health, and our medical experts will guide you from there!