Acid Reflux Disease

Acid reflux disease, also known as GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease), is a very common condition in South Asians. Acid reflux occurs when the acid in the stomach flows backward into the esophagus, or swallowing tube.

• Symptoms
• Common Causes
• Treatment

Symptoms

Common symptoms of acid reflux include:

• Heartburn (burning pain behind the breastbone)


• Sour taste in the back of the mouth

Less common symptoms that may also be signs of acid reflux include:

• Non-burning chest pain


• Stomach pain (upper part of abdomen)


• Persistent sore throat or hoarseness


• Persistent cough


• New onset asthma or asthma only at night


• Nausea

The following alarm symptoms may indicate more serious disease, which warrants immediate medical attention:

• Difficulty swallowing


• Choking sensation


• Painful swallowing


• Vomiting


• Bleeding (vomiting blood or passing dark-colored stools)


• Unexpected weight loss


• Decreased appetite


• Chest pain

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Common Causes

Many of the following major risk factors for acid reflux are typical of a South Asian lifestyle:

• Heavy late-night meals


• Spicy foods


• Fried foods and other foods rich in saturated fats


• Caffeine intake, especially late in the day (such as afternoon tea)


• Being overweight, especially around the stomach

Pregnancy also increases one's risk of experiencing acid reflux.
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Treatment

The following lifestyle changes are important for managing acid reflux:

• Eat dinner earlier, at least three to four hours before going to bed
  
• Prepare lighter dinners, with less spice and less fat
  
• Eliminate caffeinated drinks, especially after 12 p.m.
  
• Eat smaller meals to avoid overfilling the stomach
  
• Restrict alcohol use
  
• Quit smoking
  
• Lose excess weight

In addition to the above items, there are over-the-counter acid blockers and other medications that can help. Discuss these options with your physician.

Last reviewed: 2012
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