Heartburn and Acid Reflux
Heartburn or acid reflux (acidity), also called GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease), is a common digestive issue that can cause significant discomfort. While most people experience occasional heartburn, persistent symptoms may point to GERD, a more serious condition that requires medical attention. Apollo Endoscopy, Laparoscopy & Robotic Obesity Centre, Mumbai will explain what heartburn and GERD are, what causes them, and how they can be treated. If you're seeking help in managing these symptoms, Dr. Anuj Naresh Singhi, a top heartburn/acid reflux specialist in Mumbai, can offer expert care.
What is Heartburn or GERD?
Heartburn occurs when stomach acid flows back up into your oesophagus, creating a burning sensation in your chest. When this happens frequently, it’s a sign of GERD, a chronic form of acid reflux. While occasional heartburn is normal, experiencing it more than twice a week could indicate the need for specialized care.
Common Causes of Heartburn and GERD
Several factors can trigger heartburn or make GERD worse:
- Diet: Certain foods, like spicy dishes, chocolate, citrus fruits, and caffeinated drinks, can weaken the muscle that prevents acid from rising up into the (food pipe) oesophagus.
- Obesity: Excess weight increases pressure on the stomach, which can push acid into the (food pipe) oesophagus, causing heartburn
- Smoking: Smoking weakens the lower (food pipe) oesophageal sphincter (LES), which normally keeps acid in the stomach, increasing the likelihood of reflux.
- Pregnancy: Hormonal changes and the growing baby can press on the stomach, causing acid to flow back into the (food pipe) oesophagus.
- Hiatus Hernia: A hiatus hernia happens when part of the stomach pushes through the (muscle between lungs and stomach) diaphragm, which can lead to acid reflux.
Recognizing the Symptoms of Heartburn and GERD
Common symptoms of heartburn or GERD include:
- Burning sensation in the chest, especially after eating or when lying down.
- Sour or bitter taste in the mouth due to acid backing up.
- Difficulty in swallowing or a feeling that something is stuck in your throat.
- Chronic cough or hoarseness, particularly in the morning.
- Food coming back up or stomach acid.
- Repeat attacks can cause chest infections, difficulty in breathing
If you're noticing these symptoms regularly, it’s important to seek help from a specialist like Dr. Anuj Naresh Singhi, recognized as the best GI surgeon in Mumbai and an expert in treating GERD.
How is GERD Diagnosed?
If your symptoms are frequent or severe, your doctor might recommend tests like:
- Endoscopy: A camera-tipped tube is used to look inside your (food pipe) oesophagus and stomach.
- PH Monitoring: This test checks how much acid is moving up into your (food pipe) oesophagus.
- Oesophageal Manometry: It measures muscle strength and function in the (food pipe) oesophagus.
Treatment Options for Heartburn and GERD
Treating GERD often involves a combination of lifestyle changes and medications, and in some cases, surgery may be recommended.
Lifestyle Changes
Simple changes can help reduce or prevent symptoms:
- Avoid trigger foods like fatty meals, coffee, and alcohol.
- Eat smaller meals to reduce pressure on your stomach.
- Elevate your head while sleeping to prevent acid from flowing back up.
- Lose weight if necessary to reduce pressure on the stomach.
- Quit smoking, as it weakens the LES.
Medications
Over-the-counter and prescription medications can offer relief:
- Antacids: Neutralize stomach acid for quick relief.
- H2 Blockers: Reduce the amount of acid your stomach produces.
- Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs): Heal the (food pipe) oesophagus and block acid production long-term.
Surgical Options
For severe cases, surgery might be needed. Dr. Anuj Naresh Singhi, one of the best GI surgeons in Mumbai, offers advanced surgical solutions for GERD, such as Robotic or Laparoscopic (Key-Hole) fundoplication. This procedure strengthens the LES by wrapping the top of the stomach around the (food pipe) oesophagus, helping to prevent acid reflux.
Preventing Heartburn and GERD
Prevention is often the best treatment for heartburn. Here are some tips to reduce your chances of developing GERD:
- Avoid trigger foods that cause symptoms.
- Eat smaller portions to keep pressure off the stomach.
- Stay upright for at least 2-3 hours after eating.
- Wear loose clothing to avoid putting extra pressure on your abdomen.
- Quit smoking to help the LES function properly.
When Should You See a Doctor?
If you experience heartburn more than twice a week, or if over-the-counter medications aren’t working, it’s time to see a specialist. Dr. Anuj Naresh Singhi, a highly respected heartburn/acid reflux specialist in Mumbai, can diagnose and treat your condition with advanced techniques. Whether through lifestyle changes, medication, or minimally invasive surgery, he can help you find lasting relief.
Conclusion
Heartburn and GERD are common but manageable conditions. With the right treatment, you can reduce discomfort and improve your quality of life. If you’re struggling with frequent heartburn or acid reflux, consulting a specialist like Dr. Anuj Naresh Singhi, known as the best GI surgeon in Mumbai, can make a significant difference. He offers personalized care, whether you need medication, dietary advice, or advanced robotic surgery, ensuring you get the best possible outcome at Apollo Endoscopy, Laparoscopy & Robotic Obesity Centre, Mumbai.
