Acidity or acid reflux is a common digestive issue, but when it becomes frequent, it may indicate an underlying condition that needs medical attention. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and when to seek help is essential for managing acidity effectively.
What is Acidity?
Acidity occurs when stomach acid flows back into the food pipe (esophagus), causing irritation and discomfort, commonly known as heartburn. Occasional acidity is normal, but frequent episodes may be a sign of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD).
Causes of Frequent Acidity
Several factors can contribute to frequent acidity:
- Eating spicy, oily, or processed foods.
- Overeating or lying down immediately after meals.
- Obesity.
- Pregnancy.
- Excessive caffeine, alcohol, or smoking.
- Hiatal hernia.
- Stress and irregular eating habits.
Symptoms of Acidity
Common symptoms include:
- Burning sensation in the chest (heartburn).
- Sour taste in the mouth.
- Regurgitation of food or sour liquid.
- Difficulty swallowing.
- Feeling of a lump in the throat.
- Chronic cough or sore throat.
- Bloating and burping.
When to See a Doctor for Acidity
While occasional acidity can be managed with lifestyle changes, consult Dr. Amit Singhal at PGI Jalandhar if:
- Acidity occurs more than twice a week.
- You have difficulty swallowing.
- There is persistent chest pain.
- Unexplained weight loss occurs.
- There is vomiting or vomiting with blood.
- You experience black, tarry stools.
These could indicate GERD or other serious conditions like ulcers or esophageal cancer, requiring immediate evaluation.
Diagnosis of Acidity at PGI Jalandhar
At PGI Jalandhar, Dr. Amit Singhal uses advanced diagnostic tools for evaluating acidity, including:
- Detailed medical history and symptom assessment.
- Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy to check for inflammation or ulcers.
- pH monitoring to measure acid levels.
- Barium swallow X-rays in selected cases.
Early diagnosis helps in effective management and prevention of complications.
Treatment Options for Acidity
Depending on the cause and severity, treatment may include:
- Lifestyle and Dietary Modifications: Avoiding trigger foods, eating smaller meals, and not lying down immediately after eating.
- Weight Management: Reducing excess weight.
- Medications: Antacids, H2 blockers, and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) to reduce acid production.
- Surgical Options: In rare cases, surgical intervention may be considered for severe GERD.
At PGI Jalandhar, Dr. Amit Singhal creates a personalised treatment plan for managing acidity effectively.
Lifestyle Tips to Prevent Acidity
- Eat a balanced, low-fat diet.
- Avoid spicy, oily, and processed foods.
- Limit caffeine and alcohol intake.
- Maintain a healthy weight.
- Avoid smoking.
- Eat smaller, frequent meals.
- Do not lie down immediately after eating; wait for at least 2-3 hours.
- Elevate the head while sleeping.
- Manage stress through yoga and meditation.
Complications of Untreated Frequent Acidity
Ignoring frequent acidity can lead to:
- Esophagitis (inflammation of the esophagus).
- Esophageal ulcers.
- Strictures (narrowing of the esophagus).
- Barrett’s esophagus (a precancerous condition).
- Respiratory issues due to acid aspiration.
Timely treatment can help prevent these complications and improve your quality of life.
Why Choose PGI Jalandhar for Acidity Treatment?
At Premier Gastroenterology Institute (PGI) Jalandhar, we provide:
- Advanced diagnostic and treatment facilities.
- Personalised care plans under Dr. Amit Singhal.
- Comprehensive dietary and lifestyle counselling.
- A patient-focused approach for effective and long-term relief.
Our commitment to digestive health makes us a trusted Gastro Hospital in Jalandhar for acidity treatment.
Patient Experiences
Patients treated at PGI Jalandhar under Dr. Amit Singhal have experienced significant improvement in acidity symptoms, enabling them to live comfortably and confidently.
Conclusion
Frequent acidity should not be ignored, as it can affect your comfort and indicate underlying conditions requiring treatment. At Premier Gastroenterology Institute (PGI) Jalandhar, Dr. Amit Singhal offers expert care to diagnose and manage acidity, ensuring effective relief and improved digestive health.
For consultation regarding acidity treatment in Jalandhar, call us today at +91 87250 64663.