A doctor is warning people who suffer from a common condition that their lifestyle habits could be making the problem worse. Dr Reshma Rakshit, aDoctify rated consultant gastroenterologist, says one in four adults in the UK suffer from heartburn and acid reflux.
The conditions are two of the most common digestive problems people experience. Both conditions are uncomfortable and can be painful but have distinct differences.
Dr Rakshit said: “Heartburn is the uncomfortable, burning sensation felt in the chest, typically after eating. This discomfort usually starts in the lower chest and can rise upwards, sometimes reaching the throat. The sensation is often described as a painful or burning feeling that can be mistaken for a heart-related issue, though it’s related to digestion
“Acid reflux, on the other hand, occurs when stomach acid or food rises back up into the oesophagus (gullet). This regurgitation can cause a sour taste in the mouth and discomfort in the chest or throat. It’s this movement of stomach contents back up into the gullet that can lead to heartburn.”
She explained: “In a human being, the function of the gullet is to move food down into the stomach. In the normal stomach acid is produced, and this helps to digest our food.
“Now, if there are certain risk factors, this food, fluid and acid can move up into the gullet. As the gullet is not used to an acidic environment it creates symptoms such as heartburn”.
The expert said symptoms might include:
- a burning sensation in the chest
- a sore throat or hoarse voice
- a persistent cough
- increased symptoms after eating large meals
- symptoms worsening when lying down or bending over, such as during gardening or housework
- feeling food stuck in the throat
- nausea or vomiting, especially after a meal
She added many people find their symptoms worsen at night. This can particularly if they’ve had a late or heavy meal.
Dr Rakshit went on to explain that “lifestyle factors are key in controlling this condition. By making some simple lifestyle changes, a lot of people can manage their reflux over long periods of time without needing medication”.
She outlined five common risk factors which can trigger the condition. And these included one popular beverage – fizzy drinks – saying they can cause bloating which increase pressure on the stomach.
The timing and quantity of foods eaten also can impact the problem. The expert also spelled out lifestyle changes to help manage heartburn and acid reflux.
But she also issued a warning. She said: “While heartburn and acid reflux are common, there are times when it’s important to seek medical attention.
“If symptoms persist despite over-the-counter medications or lifestyle changes, or if you experience more severe issues such as unintentional weight loss, food getting stuck in your gullet, difficulty swallowing, or vomiting, it’s time to consult your doctor, as these could be signs of more serious conditions”. Dr Rakshit also stresses that “if you notice blood in your vomit or stools, you should seek emergency medical attention immediately”. For more information on treatment options visit Doctify.
Experts at digestive system charity Guts UK! agreed that symptoms could improve with a change in lifestyle. But they added some people might need to take medication from time to time or long-term.
And they warned: “For most people with the condition, heartburn and reflux is just a nuisance and little more than that. In a few people, especially where there is severe inflammation of the oesophagus, there is a risk of complications.
“These can include internal bleeding and narrowing of the gullet. One in ten people with acid reflux have Barrett’s Oesophagus. This is a condition that can, very rarely, progress to cancer of the lower oesophagus.”
It said anyone worried about these complications, should discuss them with their GP. It added you must always see your GP if:
- You have symptoms like food getting stuck in your oesophagus, frequently being sick or unintentional weight loss
- Lifestyle changes and pharmacy medicines aren’t helping.
- You have heartburn most days for three weeks or more.
- You have difficulty or pain when swallowing food.
- You have heartburn, indigestion, hiccups or an unpleasant taste in your mouth for three weeks or more.