Why you can’t (and shouldn’t) ignore acid reflux

Acid reflux is a common condition that occurs in one in five people in the UK. Here to provide an expert insight into acid reflux, including causes, prevention and complications, is Dr Sarmed Sami, leading consultant gastroenterologist.

Why do so many people suffer from acid reflux?

Acid reflux occurs when acid and other contents from the stomach travel back up into the oesophagus, resulting in a burning sensation in the chest and the throat, called heartburn.

Diet, lifestyle, and certain medical conditions can trigger acid reflux in many people.

What are the known main causes of acid reflux?

Acid reflux can be caused or aggravated by:

• Overeating or eating large meals
• Eating evening meals too close to bedtime
• Eating certain foods, such as foods that are spicy, fatty, or acidic
• Consuming certain drinks, such as caffeine or alcohol
• Having excess weight or obesity
• Wearing very fitted clothing (this puts additional pressure on the stomach)
• Smoking
• Being pregnant
• Having certain health conditions, such as gastroparesis, hiatal hernias, and scleroderma

What are the risk factors of acid reflux?

Certain factors contribute to the onset of acid reflux, including:

• Age: People over the age of 50 are more likely to experience acid reflux
• Gender: Acid reflux affects more men than women
• Family history: People with family members who have acid reflux are more at risk of developing the condition as well
• Lifestyle factors: Certain diets and smoking habits increase the risk for acid reflux

How is acid reflux best avoided?

People can prevent acid reflux with a few lifestyle changes, including:

• Eating smaller, but more frequent meals
• Avoiding known triggers of acid reflux, such as certain foods and drinks
• Reducing stress
• Allowing at least three to four hours to pass between their evening meal and their bedtime
• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Wearing relaxed, loose-fitting clothing
• Stopping smoking
• Abstaining from alcohol
• Raising the head of the bed (this prevents acid backflow into the oesophagus)

If left untreated, how serious can acid reflux become?

Acid reflux that is left untreated leads to serious health complications, including:

• Inflammation of the oesophagus (oesophagitis)
• Ulcers
• Chronic cough
• Hoarseness
• Pre-cancerous developments in the oesophagus

People with symptoms of acid reflux should see a specialist as soon as possible to receive accurate diagnosis and personalised treatment.

If you are dealing with acid reflux and require expert treatment and management, do not hesitate to visit Dr Sami’s Top Doctors profile today.