Acidity & Heartburn: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

Acidity and heartburn are among the most common digestive complaints experienced by people today. While occasional acidity after eating spicy or heavy meals is quite common, frequent heartburn may indicate an underlying digestive disorder such as acid reflux or GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease).

Acidity occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing irritation and a burning sensation in the chest or throat. Many people ignore these symptoms or rely on over-the-counter antacids for temporary relief. However, persistent acidity can lead to complications if left untreated.

At Pramod Gastro & Liver Care Centre in Nandyal, Dr. S. V. Pramod Reddy, a specialist in gastroenterology and digestive diseases, evaluates patients with chronic acidity to identify the underlying cause and provide appropriate treatment. Early diagnosis can help prevent complications and significantly improve digestive health and quality of life.

Common Symptoms Associated With Acidity

Acidity can present with a variety of symptoms depending on the severity and underlying cause. Common symptoms include:

• Burning sensation in the chest
• Sour or bitter taste in the mouth
• Acid regurgitation
• Bloating after meals
• Frequent burping
• Upper abdominal discomfort
• Persistent cough or hoarseness

If these symptoms occur more than twice a week, it may indicate chronic acid reflux or GERD, which requires evaluation by a gastroenterologist.

Common Causes of Acidity and Heartburn

Acidity can occur due to several lifestyle factors and medical conditions:

Conditions That May Cause Persistent Acidity

Frequent acidity can sometimes be a symptom of an underlying digestive condition. Some of the common conditions include:

• GERD: A chronic condition where stomach acid repeatedly flows back into the esophagus.
• Gastritis: Inflammation of the stomach lining.
• Peptic Ulcer Disease: Open sores in the stomach or upper intestine.
• Hiatal Hernia: When part of the stomach pushes into the chest cavity.

Diagnosis of Chronic Acidity

At Pramod Gastro & Liver Care Centre, Dr. S. V. Pramod Reddy may recommend certain diagnostic tests:

• Upper GI Endoscopy: Using a thin flexible tube with a camera to examine the stomach lining and esophagus.
• pH Monitoring: Measures the amount of acid reflux over a specific period.
• Esophageal Manometry: Evaluates muscle function of the food pipe.

Treatment Options for Acidity and GERD

Treatment for acidity depends on the underlying cause and severity of symptoms:

1. Lifestyle Modifications: Eating smaller meals, maintaining healthy weight, and elevating the head while sleeping.
2. Medications: Prescribed drugs to reduce stomach acid production and improve stomach emptying.
3. Advanced Endoscopic Procedures: For severe reflux, minimally invasive procedures may be recommended to strengthen the esophageal valve.