Heartburn, a burning sensation in the middle of your chest that may rise up your body toward your throat, is the typical acid reflux symptom. It tends to flare up following a large meal or when you lie down flat. Some acid reflux patients also experience regurgitation, which happens when you feel food or sour fluid backing up into your mouth or throat. Acid reflux can also lead to other uncomfortable sensations, such as dysphagia (difficulty swallowing), a globus hystericus, chronic hiccups or coughing, or soreness in the back of the throat accompanied by a scratchy voice (laryngitis). We tell patients that an occasional episode is normal, yet when these symptoms appear more than twice a week or start to interfere with daily comfort, they may point to a pattern worth evaluating.
Resource: my.clevelandclinic.org
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When Acid Reflux Symptoms Feel Serious
One of the most frequent questions we answer is when acid reflux symptoms warrant medical care. Heartburn is often confused for a medical emergency because some acid reflux signs are similar to those of a heart attack. Other medical conditions, such as ulcers, stomach cancer, or hiatal hernia, can share many of the symptoms of acid reflux. There are a number of signs that, if experienced, suggest you should immediately visit the doctor. For instance, chest pain accompanied by difficulty breathing, pain or difficulty swallowing, significant and unexplained weight loss, or vomiting blood or material that resembles coffee grounds all warrant medical care. Patients should also understand the distinction between gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and gastroesophageal reflux. GERD is an advanced form of acid reflux that happens repeatedly and has the potential to cause damage over time to your esophagus. Avoid self-medicating for acid reflux or self-diagnosing it.
What Are Some Acid Reflux Triggers?
Acid reflux symptoms are often linked to food choices and daily habits.
Common food and drink triggers include:
- Spicy foods
- Greasy foods
- Acidic foods
- Caffeinated beverages
- Alcohol
Other common triggers include:
- Smoking
- Stress
- Large meals
- Late-night eating
- Lying down soon after eating
- Heavy exercise too soon after meals
Colorado Springs can bring another concern. High elevation and a dry climate can make dehydration more common. The body needs enough water to digest food properly. Poor hydration may make stomach acid more concentrated.
Heavy meals before exercise can also trigger reflux. This can happen before running, hiking, or other physical activity.
To lower the risk of acid reflux symptoms:
- Drink enough water throughout the day
- Eat smaller meals
- Avoid known trigger foods
- Allow time to digest before exercise
- Stay upright for 2 to 3 hours after eating
When to Schedule an Appointment
An appointment with a physician should be scheduled if you are experiencing symptoms more than two days a week, if over-the-counter medications do not relieve your acid reflux symptoms, or if you have problems swallowing or experiencing pain. Don’t wait to seek medical attention for any concerning symptoms like chest pain, trouble breathing, unintentional weight loss, or evidence of blood. When you visit Associates in Gastroenterology, PC, your doctor will take an in-depth medical history, asking you about the types of foods you eat and how your symptoms are acting out. It may also be necessary for him to perform an upper endoscopy, a diagnostic procedure that allows them to view your esophagus and stomach. Seeing a doctor sooner rather than later is not an overreaction. It can help our doctors identify the source of your symptoms and alleviate any discomfort you might be suffering in the meantime.
Acid Reflux Treatments
We have a variety of treatment options for acid reflux at Associates in Gastroenterology, PC. Many patients will see their primary physician for an initial workup and might choose to follow up with a gastroenterologist with greater expertise in the ongoing diagnosis and treatment of conditions such as acid reflux. In addition, a gastroenterologist will have more detailed knowledge as well as the ability to perform procedures like an endoscopy. Treatments vary from patient to patient and generally include lifestyle or dietary modifications and may require medications available either over the counter or by prescription. For more intractable or difficult-to-treat patients, more invasive procedures may also be required.
Resource: health.harvard.edu
Does Acid Reflux Go Away on Its Own?
Mild reflux often goes away on its own, especially after a large, rich meal or a stressful period. Occasional acid reflux can usually be managed with smaller meals, avoiding trigger foods, and staying upright for 2 to 3 hours after eating. If reflux happens several times a week, it is less likely to resolve on its own and may require medical care, along with diet and lifestyle changes. Chronic reflux can damage the esophagus, so ongoing symptoms should be evaluated by a doctor.
Why Do Symptoms Get Worse At Night?
Reflux often feels worse at night because lying down makes it easier for stomach acid to move into the esophagus. During the day, gravity helps keep stomach contents lower in the stomach. Large meals, late-night eating, caffeine, spicy foods, and dehydration can make symptoms more noticeable, especially in higher-altitude areas like Colorado Springs. To reduce nighttime reflux, eat dinner several hours before bed, avoid evening triggers, drink enough water, and raise your head with pillows.
Final Thoughts
Acid reflux is treatable and should be evaluated by a doctor. If you are experiencing persistent, worsening symptoms or those that interfere with your daily life, the team at Associates in Gastroenterology, PC can help. Our team in Colorado Springs is ready to see you for an assessment, diagnose the problem, and find relief. Contact us to schedule an appointment.
