6 Min Read
Acid reflux is a common digestive issue that affects millions worldwide. At Manipal Hospital Kharadi, we frequently encounter patients struggling with symptoms like heartburn, regurgitation, and discomfort after meals. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options is essential for managing this condition effectively and improving your quality of life.
Synopsis
What Is Acid Reflux?
Acid reflux occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, usually due to a weakened lower esophageal sphincter (LES). At Manipal Hospital Kharadi, our gastrointestinal specialists explain that this backwards flow causes irritation, often resulting in a burning sensation in the chest—commonly known as heartburn.
Common Symptoms of Acid Reflux
Patients visiting Manipal Hospital Kharadi with acid reflux often report:
-
Burning sensation in the chest (heartburn)
-
Regurgitation of food or sour liquid
-
Difficulty swallowing
-
Chronic cough
-
Hoarseness or sore throat
-
Feeling of a lump in the throat
-
Bad breath or sour taste
What Causes Acid Reflux?
Our experts at Manipal Hospital Kharadi stress that several factors contribute to acid reflux, including dietary habits, medical conditions, and lifestyle choices.
1. Dietary Triggers
Certain foods can relax the LES or increase stomach acid, including:
-
Spicy and oily foods
-
Chocolates
-
Tomatoes
-
Citrus fruits
-
Caffeinated and carbonated drinks
- Alcohol
2. Lifestyle Factors
Overeating or eating large meals
-
Sleeping right after eating
-
Wearing tight clothing around the waist
-
Smoking
-
Stress and anxiety
3. Medical Conditions
Our gastroenterologists at Manipal Hospital Kharadi often identify these underlying issues:
-
Obesity – increases abdominal pressure
-
Hiatal hernia – weakens the LES
-
Pregnancy – hormonal and physical changes
-
Gastroparesis – slows down stomach emptying
4. Medications
Certain medications may trigger or worsen reflux symptoms, including:
-
NSAIDs (e.g., aspirin, ibuprofen)
-
Sedatives
-
Calcium channel blockers
-
Antidepressants
Remedies for Acid Reflux
At Manipal Hospital Kharadi, we recommend a personalised treatment plan that includes lifestyle changes, home remedies, and medications.
1. Lifestyle Modifications
-
Eat Smaller Meals.
Frequent, smaller meals reduce pressure on the stomach.
-
Avoid Trigger Foods.
Patients at Manipal Hospital Kharadi often experience significant relief after identifying and eliminating trigger foods.
-
Don't Lie Down After Eating.
Stay upright for 2-3 hours post-meal to prevent acid backflow.
-
Elevate the Head of Your Bed.
Sleeping at an incline can reduce nighttime reflux.
-
Maintain a Healthy Weight.
Obesity is one of the leading causes of acid reflux. Weight loss has helped many patients at Manipal Hospital Kharadi achieve lasting relief.
-
Quit Smoking
Nicotine weakens the LES, worsening symptoms.
- Manage Stress
Yoga, meditation, and breathing exercises are effective ways to reduce acid reflux triggered by anxiety.
2. Home Remedies
Some natural remedies suggested by our dieticians at Manipal Hospital Kharadi include:
-
Ginger Tea: Anti-inflammatory and soothing.
-
Aloe Vera Juice: Helps reduce irritation.
-
Apple Cider Vinegar: Can aid digestion (use cautiously)
-
Chewing Sugar-Free Gum: Stimulates saliva to neutralise acid.
The Gastroenterology Department at Manipal Hospital Kharadi recommends consulting a doctor before using any over-the-counter medication for prolonged periods.
4. Medical Procedures
For patients with chronic GERD who don’t respond to medication, Manipal Hospital Kharadi offers advanced procedures:
Fundoplication – Strengthens the LES by wrapping part of the stomach around it.
LINX Device Implantation – A minimally invasive procedure to support the LES with magnetic beads.
Causes vs Remedies for Acid Reflux
| Causes of Acid Reflux. | Recommended Remedies. |
| Fatty, fried, spicy foods. | Eat smaller, non-spicy meals. |
| Citrus fruits, alcohol, and caffeine. | Avoid or limit intake. |
| Eating late or lying down after meals. | Eat early and remain upright after eating. |
| Obesity. | Follow a weight loss plan supervised by our dietitians. |
| Smoking. | Smoking cessation programs at Manipal Hospital Kharadi. |
| Stress. | Join yoga or stress management sessions. |
| Hiatal hernia. | Diagnostic imaging and treatment options are available. |
| Certain medications. | Review with a specialist for an alternative. |
When Should You Visit a Doctor at Manipal Hospital Kharadi?
Seek professional help if:
-
You have acid reflux more than twice a week
-
Over-the-counter meds stop working
-
Swallowing becomes difficult
-
You experience unexplained weight loss
-
Chest pain mimics heart issues
-
You vomit blood or notice black stools
The expert gastroenterologists at Manipal Hospital Kharadi use diagnostic tools like endoscopy, pH monitoring, and imaging to assess and treat acid reflux precisely.
Why Choose Manipal Hospital Kharadi for Acid Reflux Treatment?
At Manipal Hospital Kharadi, we offer:
-
Expert consultation with a leading gastroenterologist
-
Comprehensive diagnostics (endoscopy, pH tests)
-
Personalised dietary counselling
-
Advanced minimally invasive procedures
-
Follow-up care and lifestyle management support
We believe in treating the root cause, not just the symptoms. Whether your reflux is occasional or chronic, our team will help you achieve lasting relief and better digestive health.
Conclusion
Acid reflux, though common, shouldn’t be ignored—especially when it begins to affect your daily life. By understanding the causes and implementing lifestyle changes, natural remedies, or medical treatments, you can gain control over your symptoms.
If you're experiencing persistent heartburn or related symptoms, book an appointment at Manipal Hospital Kharadi. Our experienced team is here to guide you toward a pain-free, healthier life.
FAQ's
Acid reflux occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing symptoms like heartburn. GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease) is a chronic, more severe form of acid reflux. At Manipal Hospital Kharadi, we help differentiate between the two and provide personalised treatment plans.
Typical symptoms include a burning sensation in the chest (heartburn), sour taste in the mouth, regurgitation, bloating, and trouble swallowing. Visit Manipal Hospital Kharadi if symptoms persist more than twice a week.
Avoid spicy foods, citrus fruits, chocolate, caffeinated drinks, alcohol, and fatty meals. Our dietitians at Manipal Hospital Kharadi provide customised diet plans to help manage acid reflux effectively.
With the right lifestyle changes, dietary adjustments, and medical interventions, many patients experience long-term relief. The gastroenterology team at Manipal Hospital Kharadi offers both non-surgical and surgical options for lasting results.
If your symptoms occur frequently, disrupt sleep, or don’t improve with home remedies, it's time to consult a specialist. Book an appointment at Manipal Hospital Kharadi for expert evaluation and treatment.
Diagnosis may involve endoscopy, pH monitoring, or imaging studies. At Manipal Hospital Kharadi, we use state-of-the-art diagnostic tools to assess the severity and guide treatment.
Yes, ginger tea, aloe vera juice, chewing sugar-free gum, and maintaining an upright posture after meals can help. At Manipal Hospital Kharadi, we also offer holistic approaches through diet and lifestyle counselling.
Surgery is considered only in severe, medication-resistant cases. Procedures like fundoplication or LINX are available at Manipal Hospital Kharadi for advanced GERD cases.
Yes, stress can trigger or exacerbate acid reflux symptoms. At Manipal Hospital Kharadi, we offer stress management support as part of a comprehensive treatment approach.
Yes, even infants and children can experience reflux. Pediatric specialists at Manipal Hospital Kharadi can diagnose and treat acid reflux in younger age groups with safe, effective methods.
Share this article on:
