Have you ever experienced a burning sensation in the chest? Heartburn is one of the common conditions that individuals experience frequently. This condition may occur after an intake of certain meals, and other factors such as smoking can increase the risk of heartburn. However, the condition differs from Cypress acid reflux, in which the acidic content from the stomach flows to the mouth through the esophagus, causing discomfort. The following are important things worth noting about acid reflux;
Myths about the acid reflux
Here are the misconceptions about the conditions;
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Reflux is a normal condition.
Many people underrate this condition since they confuse it with normal heartburn. However, this condition should not be taken lightly since it has serious consequences. For instance, if left untreated, it can lead to esophageal cancer.
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Spicy meals alone can cause this condition.
Certain meals with spicy content can cause reflux. However, it is not guaranteed that you will develop this condition when you take them. The meal that causes this condition differs from one person to another.
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Only medication can alleviate this condition.
Some individuals perceive the medication as the only option to ease the severity of acid reflux. However, the reality is that you can adopt some lifestyle changes to help you manage this condition. For instance, you can avoid taking meals that trigger the condition.
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The condition is not related to sleep.
The truth is that some sleeping positions can worsen this condition. For instance, lying on your back can increase the chances of the acidic content flowing to the esophagus. Sleeping sideways can help to ease the symptoms of this condition.
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Individuals without a history of acid reflux are safe.
Some individuals believe that if you have never experienced this condition in your lifetime, you cannot get it later in life. However, the reality is that everyone is likely to develop this condition as they grow old. This instance will occur due to a slow digestion rate in the elder persons leading to regurgitation of acidic content from the stomach to the esophagus.
Prevention of acid reflux
You can avoid and reduce the severity of the condition. Here is how;
- Eating smaller quantities: consuming heavy meals more often can increase the risk of developing the condition. Therefore individuals should eat smaller frequent meals.
- Maintaining a healthy weight: excessive fat in the stomach can interfere with the functioning of the esophagus valves, increasing the risk of acid reflux. Therefore, individuals should reduce their belly fat through workouts in weight management programs.
- Avoid alcohol consumption: excessive intake of alcohol can worsen the symptoms of this condition. Therefore, cutting down the consumption of alcohol can help to relieve the discomfort associated with acid reflux.
- Eat early dinner: taking the meal a few minutes before bedtime can worsen the acid reflux symptoms. Therefore, individuals should eat earlier enough before going to sleep.
When to see a specialist
It is time to contact the doctor if you:
- Observe blood stains on your stool
- Experience the persistency in vomiting
- Have problems while swallowing
- Experience sudden weight loss
Individuals have been feeling discomfort due to acid reflux, especially after a big meal. If you have been experiencing the condition, you should worry no more. GastroDoxs, located in Cypress, has been set to address your needs. Bharat Pothuri, MD, is experienced in offering different treatments for patients with acid reflux conditions. Visit the facility today and mark the end of your suffering.
