Those random burns you get in your chest once in a while can be scary. You may worry that it is some serious health condition, but many times, it is acid reflux, which is manageable at home or treated when diagnosed. 

Acid reflux is a common condition. It is a hot burning sensation, called heartburn, in the chest, which makes a person squeamish. You may experience a sensation of stomach contents flowing back up into the throat or mouth. Normal triggers for heartburn are spicy or oily foods, alcohol, coffee, and, very importantly, lying down right after eating.

What is Acid Reflux?

Acid reflux is a digestive condition in which stomach acid flows back into the oesophagus. When acid reflux happens often or becomes persistent, it is known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). GERD is a chronic condition in which stomach acid repeatedly flows back into the oesophagus, irritating its lining and causing symptoms such as frequent heartburn and regurgitation.

Common Causes for Acid Reflux:

• Eating large, heavy meals and lying down right after a meal

• Being overweight or obese

• Snacking close to bedtime

• Consuming certain foods like citrus, tomato, chocolate, mint, garlic, onions or spicy or fatty foods

• Drinking certain beverages like alcohol, aerated drinks, coffee, or tea

• Smoking

• A hiatal hernia, where part of the stomach moves above the diaphragm, which leads to acid reflux. 

• Pregnancy-related bodily changes

• Certain medicines, such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and some muscle relaxants, may irritate the stomach or worsen acid reflux symptoms in some people. 

Common Symptoms Related to Acid Reflux:

Some of the following symptoms may accompany acid reflux.

• Heartburn: A burning pain or discomfort that may move from the stomach to the belly or chest, or even up into the throat.

• Regurgitation: A sour or bitter-tasting acid backing up into your throat or mouth.

• Bloating

• Burping

• Dysphagia (the sensation of food being stuck in your throat)

• Nausea

• Wheezing, dry cough, hoarseness, or a chronic sore throat.

• Chest pain

• Worsening of asthma

If, along with these signs, you experience blood in stool, vomit or unintentional weight loss, these are warning signs that call for an immediate consultation with a physician. 

Foods that Trigger Acid Reflux:

These foods trigger acid reflux, so cutting down on them helps you manage the condition.

• Spicy Foods: Chillies, hot sauces, pepper-heavy dishes may irritate the oesophageal lining and cause/worsen heartburn.

• Fried and Fatty Foods: Deep-fried snacks, fast food and oily gravies may delay stomach emptying, increasing the likelihood of reflux. 

• Citrus Fruits and Juices: Oranges, lemons, grapefruit, and citrus juices are acidic and can aggravate reflux symptoms.

• Tomatoes and Tomato-Based Products: Tomato curry, ketchup, and pizza sauce are acidic and a common reflux trigger.

• Caffeinated Drinks: Coffee, strong tea, and energy drinks may relax the lower oesophageal sphincter in some people, making reflux more likely.

• Carbonated Beverages: Soda, fizzy drinks increase stomach pressure and acid backflow.

• Chocolate and Mint: Relax the LES and trigger reflux symptoms in many people.

• Alcohol: Wine and spirits can relax the lower oesophageal sphincter and irritate the oesophageal lining, worsening reflux symptoms.

Quick Solutions for Acid Reflux:

• Stand up and move around

• Put on looser pants or remove your belt

• Take an antacid

How long does acid reflux last? The symptoms of acid reflux can last from a few minutes to a few hours. It varies from person to person. 

Foods that Help Reduce Acid Reflux:

These foods are high in fibre and boost digestion, helping you manage acid reflux naturally.

• Oatmeal and whole grains

• Bananas, apples, melons

• Steamed or boiled vegetables

• Lean proteins like grilled fish, chicken, and dal

Some Home Care Tips to Prevent Acid Reflux:

• Eat smaller, more frequent meals: Avoid large quantities at once. Avoid heavy or late-night meals-Helps reduce stomach pressure

• Maintain proper posture after eating: Stay upright for at least 2–3 hours after meals.

• Keep your head elevated while sleeping: Use extra pillows or raise the head of the bed to prevent nighttime reflux.

• Wear loose-fitting clothes: Tight clothing increases abdominal pressure.

• Maintain a healthy weight: Excess weight puts pressure on the stomach.

• Avoid smoking. It weakens the lower oesophageal sphincter.

• Practice stress management with yoga, deep breathing, and meditation, as stress can worsen digestive symptoms

Final Thoughts

Acid reflux is a common digestive condition. Follow the tips discussed here to manage acid reflux easily at home. Despite taking precautions, if the issue persists, consulting a doctor may be a good option.

Star Hospitals in Hyderabad provide specialised treatment for acid reflux (GERD) through the Medical Gastroenterology department. We offer advanced diagnostics, minimally invasive procedures, and personalised care for reflux-related issues. Our GERD services include Diagnostic Endoscopy to check oesophageal damage. Minimally Invasive Surgery (like laparoscopic fundoplication) for chronic GERD, Dietary & Lifestyle Counsel in Medical Management with lifestyle guidance and medications, and comprehensive follow-up care.

For more information and to book an appointment, call 1800-102-7827 today.