These are fairly typical problems with acid in the stomach and they run rampant with modern lifestyles and diets. Acidity & GERD (Gastroesophageal reflux disease) are often used interchangeably. They are not the same but they look the same.
It is important to differentiate between acidity and GERD so that you get the right treatment, prevention and long term health of your digestive system. In this blog we will make all the information you need to know easy to understand in easy way.
What is an acid?
Also called acid reflux or heartburn or acidity. This is a short term condition where excess acid from the stomach is allowed to flow back into the esophagus. This may cause a burning sensation in your chest or throat.
Most Common Causes of Acidity
Acidity is mainly caused by lifestyle and food habits such as:
- Eating fried food that is oily and spicy
- Overeating and eating too little
- Too much tea, coffee or alcohol;
- Sleep problems and stress
- Avoid lying down right after eating.
Heartburn Symptoms:
- Heartburn (chest pain or burning)
- A bitter or sour taste in the mouth.
- Mild pain
- Upset stomach temporarily.
Acidity is an occasional problem that can be easily managed through simple lifestyle changes or over the counter medications.
What is GERD exactly?
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a chronic, more serious version of this. That’s when stomach acid travels back up the tube (esophagus) that connects your mouth and stomach. The backwash (reflux) can irritate the lining of your gullet (oesophagus).
Occasional heartburn is not a chronic disease that needs chronic treatment like GERD.
What causes acid reflux?
- A weak or abnormal lower esophageal sphincter (LES)
- Obese
- Some medications
Signs of GERD
- Heartburn more than two times a week
- Chest pain or discomfort
- Difficulty swallowing vomit acidic food or fluid
- Persistent cough or sore throat
- Changes in voice or hoarseness
GERD symptoms are more severe and last longer than heartburn.
Heartburn Vs Acidity “The frequency and the severity are the big differences. It is normally harmless and the sourness will go away. “GERD is a chronic disease. It can cause problems if not treated.
Short term Acid and Long term GERD
- Frequency: GERD is a very common disease. Acidity is a disease of occasion
- Severity: Mild to moderate acid, severe GERD
- Cause: GERD due to LES weakness Acid makes way for life
Treatment Home remedies for acidity can be cured, you might require medical treatment for GERD.
When to see your doctor?
A little acid now and then is no cause for concern. See your doctor if you have:
- More than 2 or more symptoms a week
- Chest pain constant
- Swallowing problems
- Unexplained weight loss.
- Sore throat (duration > 3 days); cough
If left untreated, GERD can cause complications such as esophagitis, ulcers or permanent damage to the esophagus.
Control of Acidity & GERD
- Lifestyle modification
- But a few simple lifestyle changes can make all the difference to your symptoms:
- Eat more often, smaller meals
- Avoid spicy, fatty and processed food
- Rest after you eat.
- Maintain your weight
- Give up smoking and drink less alcohol
- Exercise or meditation can reduce stress.
- Better food advice
- Eat high-fiber foods like fruits, vegetables and whole grains.
- No eating late at night.
- Cut down on caffeine Medical:
GERD treatment may include:
Antacids for quick relief H2 blockers Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) decrease acid production
Summary
Acidity and Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) might seem similar because of their symptoms, but they are very different when it comes to your health. There is no serious acidulation problem. It is manageable. GERD is a chronic disease and requires proper medical management.
The early diagnosis of symptoms and changes in your lifestyle habits can help you avoid complications and improve your quality of life.
