Acid Reflux Treatment in Gurgaon

Acid reflux is a condition where stomach acid travels backward into the esophagus instead of staying in the stomach.

This can irritate the lining of the food pipe and cause

• Burning sensation in the chest (heartburn)

• Sour taste in the mouth.

• Discomfort after meals.

Occasional reflux is normal, but frequent reflux needs medical attention.

Common symptoms include

• Burning sensation in the chest (heartburn)

• Sour or bitter taste in the mouth

• Chest pain

• Difficulty swallowing

• A feeling of a lump in the throat

• Chronic cough

• Hoarseness in voice

• Bloating

• Nausea

Warning sign: If symptoms happen more than twice a week, consult a gastroenterology specialist.

Acid reflux can occur because of many lifestyle, medical, and dietary factors. 

• A weakened lower esophageal sphincter (LES): It can also contribute to acid reflux. The LES is a ring of muscle that acts like a valve between the food pipe and stomach. Once it is weak or opens at an inappropriate time, it fails to prevent stomach acid from flowing back into the esophagus, resulting in symptoms of acid reflux.

• Overeating: Consuming excessive amounts of food can also be the result of acid reflux through the mechanism of overeating and/or eating large quantities of food. This puts additional pressure on the stomach; thus, there is a greater probability that, due to the additional pressure from a large meal, stomach acid will move into the esophagus from the stomach.

• Spicy, Oily, and Trigger Foods: Certain foods can increase acid production or relax the stomach valve, such as:

  • Spicy foods

  • Fried and oily foods

  • Citrus fruits

  • Chocolate

  • Caffeine

  • Carbonated drinks

These foods can trigger or worsen acid reflux symptoms.

• Obesity or Excess Weight: Being overweight increases pressure on the abdomen. This pressure pushes the stomach contents upward, making acid reflux more likely.

• Smoking and Alcohol Consumption: Smoking and alcohol weaken the lower esophageal sphincter muscle. They also increase acid production, which raises the risk of reflux and irritation.

• Pregnancy: During pregnancy, the hormonal fluctuation can increase pressure and affect the functioning of the stomach valve. This makes acid reflux a very common problem among pregnant women, especially in the later stages.

• Certain Medications

Some medicines can increase acid reflux risk or irritate the esophagus, such as:

• Painkillers (NSAIDs)

• Blood pressure medications.

• Muscle relaxants.

• Sedatives.

Always consult your gastro doctor near you if you notice reflux symptoms after starting any medication

Proper diagnosis is important to confirm acid reflux and rule out other digestive problems. Doctors use the following methods:

• Medical history and physical evaluation: The doctor will ask you about your symptoms, eating routines, lifestyle, and medical history. This information can provide a better perspective on both the severity of your acid reflux and how frequently it occurs.

• Endoscopy: Endoscopy is one of the most precise tests that can be used to identify and diagnose acid reflux. During this procedure, a narrow, flexible tube with a camera is placed through your mouth into your esophagus and stomach so that the doctor can visually evaluate them for inflammation, ulcers, and any other abnormalities.

• pH monitoring test: This test is used to quantify the total amount of acid in your esophagus over a period of time, which is typically 24 hours. It assists in confirming how frequently acid reflux takes place and its severity.

• Barium swallow X-ray: In this test, you are required to drink a barium solution that will coat your foodpipe so that X-ray pictures can be taken to inspect the shape of your foodpipe and determine any abnormalities, if present.

Early diagnosis will be important in order to start treatment as soon as possible; it may prevent complications such as GERD, ulceration, and damage to the esophagus.

Treatment depends on severity.

Lifestyle changes

• Eat small meals.

• Avoid spicy and oily food.

• Maintain healthy weight.

• Avoid lying down after eating

• Stop smoking.

• Reduce alcohol.

 Medicines

Doctors may prescribe:

• Antacids.

• Acid blockers.

• Proton pump inhibitors.

These reduce acid and provide relief.

Advanced treatment

In severe cases, surgery may be recommended to strengthen the valve.

You are more likely to develop acid reflux if you:

• Are overweight

• Eat unhealthy food regularly

• Smoke

• Drink alcohol frequently

• Are pregnant

• Have poor eating habits

• Lie down immediately after meals

You can prevent acid reflux by following simple tips:

• Eat on time

• Avoid overeating

• Maintain a healthy weight

• Exercise regularly

• Avoid trigger foods

• Sleep with your head elevated

• Reduce tea and coffee

A healthy lifestyle plays a major role.

Accurate diagnosis and skilled treatment of acid reflux allow for appropriate management of the condition and the prevention of complications in the future. Miracles Healthcare, a multispeciality hospital located in Gurgaon, provides individuals with comprehensive care for acid reflux and all types of digestive disorders. This hospital allows patients to have access to highly qualified gastroenterologists, the latest diagnostic techniques, including endoscopy, and individualized treatment plans. With the combination of cutting-edge technology and all aspects of digestive care being provided under one roof.