Acid Reflux Attack: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment

Published by: 11 February 2024, 08:59 am IST

Haven’t we all experienced that terrible burning sensation in the throat and even in your stomach after a heavy meal? Sometimes, you will also experience a backlash of sour liquid in your mouth. Well, that’s acid reflux for you. Acid reflux is a digestive condition in which stomach acid or bile irritates the lining of the food pipe.

Although this is not a serious condition, things can worsen and become chronic. If this happens too often, it can lead to GERD – gastroesophageal reflux disease, a condition where stomach acid flows into the tube that connects your mouth and esophagus. Health Shots Consulted Dr. Abhijit BR, Consultant – Medical Gastroenterology, Astor Whitfield Hospital.

What is Acid Reflux?

Acid reflux is a burning sensation in your chest that gets worse at night. You may also experience some sour fluid in your mouth, a lump in your throat, or chest pain. “Acid reflux, or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), occurs when stomach acid backs up into the tube that connects the throat and stomach, called the esophagus. It occurs when a ring-like muscle called the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) weakens. The result? It’s discomfort and irritation in the chest and throat. leads,” explained Dr. Abhijit.

An acid reflux or GERD attack is a sudden episode of acid reflux symptoms, such as heartburn or regurgitation, which results in stomach acid irritating the lining of the esophagus, causing noticeable discomfort.

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What are the symptoms of an acid reflux attack?

Following are the symptoms of acid reflux:

1. Heartburn: Burning in the chest.
2. Regurgitation: Regurgitation of stomach contents into the throat.
3. Chest Pain: Discomfort or pain in the chest.
4. Dysphagia: Difficulty in swallowing.
5. Sour taste in mouth: Due to sour stomach acid

What is the difference between heartburn and heart attack?

Heartburn, a symptom of acid reflux, is a burning sensation in the chest and improves with antacids. In contrast, a heart attack is pain, pressure, or tightness in the chest that requires immediate medical attention.

Are GERD and Acid Reflux the Same?

In an acid reflux attack, a person usually experiences heartburn after eating or lying down. It is a mild burning sensation in the center of the chest. Gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, is a more severe form of acid reflux. Here is the backflow of stomach acid, which can actually harm the body. It occurs chronically. When GERD is severe, some surgical procedures are available to treat GERD, such as fundoplication as well as the LINX Reflux Management System, where a special device called the LINX is wrapped around the LES. It is a ring made of small magnetic titanium beads and essentially strengthens the sphincter.

Do children suffer from acid reflux attacks?

Yes, children can suffer from acid reflux. Acid reflux in infants and children often manifests differently than in adults. “In cases involving children, there are some red flags to watch out for. “A child may exhibit symptoms such as slouching during or after eating, excessive crying, especially during or after meals, and disturbances in sleep patterns,” says Dr. Abhijit. Further, recurrent ear infections, chronic hoarseness, and sinusitis can also indicate acid reflux at this age.

1. Frequent spitting up or vomiting.
2. Irritability during or after eating.
3. Poor weight gain.
4. Coughing or wheezing.
5. Refusal to eat or difficulty swallowing.

Also Read: Is It Heart Attack or Heartburn? Here’s how to differentiate

What are the causes of acid reflux attacks?

GERD occurs when your LES or lower esophageal sphincter doesn’t work properly. The LS is a band of muscle, like a flap, that is placed at the end of the esophagus. When food is swallowed, it opens up and allows it to travel from your mouth to your stomach. Once this is done, it closes again. However, when it does not close properly, acid reflux occurs.

This happens if you have a condition called a hiatal hernia, where part of your stomach moves above your diaphragm. This can also happen if you eat too big a meal all the time or if you go to bed right after your meal. Other lifestyle-related causes can be conditions such as heavy smoking, alcohol or obesity, pregnancy and age.

What is the treatment for an acid reflux attack?

Treatment for an acid reflux attack may include medications such as proton pump inhibitors or lifestyle changes. However, some home remedies for acid reflux and GERD can give you relief:

1. Maintain a healthy weight

GERD is more common in obese adults, so managing your weight can also help you deal with it. Being overweight, especially in the abdomen, can put pressure on the stomach. Because of this, stomach acid flows back into the esophagus.

2. Identify and avoid trigger foods

It is important to understand what foods are not good for you. These foods and drinks can increase acid reflux. Avoid foods like tomato sauce, citrus fruits, caffeine and chocolate.

3. Avoid eating large meals and going to bed after eating

You should try to take small meals, which will put less pressure on the stomach. It also reduces the number of calories you take in and helps with heartburn. Also, do not lie down after eating, as this can lead to heartburn.

4. Elevate your head while sleeping

When your head is slightly elevated, then, due to gravity, stomach acid is prevented from backflowing. It does not enter the esophagus.

5. Herbal remedies

There are some herbal teas that try to treat GERD. Chamomile tea is great for acid reflux. Apart from this, licorice and marshmallow also help GERD.