๐น What is Gastric Reflux?
Gastric reflux, also known as acid reflux, is a common condition where stomach acid flows back into the food pipe (esophagus). This happens when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) becomes weak or relaxes at the wrong time. The acid irritates the lining of the esophagus and causes discomfort.
๐น Common Symptoms
People with gastric reflux may experience:
- ๐ฅ Burning sensation in the chest (heartburn)
- ๐คข Sour or bitter taste in the mouth
- ๐คฎ Acid regurgitation
- ๐ฃ Difficulty in swallowing
- ๐จ Bloating and frequent burping
- ๐ด Symptoms worsening at night or after meals
๐น Causes of Gastric Reflux
The most common causes include:
- ๐ Spicy, oily, or fatty foods
- โ Excessive tea, coffee, or soft drinks
- ๐ฌ Smoking and alcohol
- โ๏ธ Overweight or obesity
- ๐ Lying down immediately after eating
- ๐คฐ Pregnancy
- ๐ Stress and irregular eating habits
๐น Gastric Reflux and Night-Time Symptoms
Night reflux is very common and uncomfortable.
๐ Acid flows upward while lying flat
๐ด Causes disturbed sleep
๐ฎโ๐จ Leads to cough and throat irritation
Tips to reduce night reflux:
- ๐๏ธ Elevate head end of bed
- ๐ซ Avoid food 3 hours before sleep
- ๐ฒ Eat light dinner
- โ Avoid spicy food at night
๐น Possible Complications if Untreated
Ignoring gastric reflux may lead to:
- โ ๏ธ Chronic esophagitis (inflammation)
- โ ๏ธ Ulcers in the food pipe
- โ ๏ธ Narrowing of the esophagus
- โ ๏ธ Long-term throat and voice problems
- โ ๏ธ Increased risk of Barrettโs esophagus
Early diagnosis helps prevent these complications.
๐น How to Prevent Gastric Reflux
You can reduce symptoms by making simple lifestyle changes:
- ๐ฅ Eat small and frequent meals
- โฐ Avoid late-night eating
- ๐๏ธ Sleep with your head slightly elevated
- ๐ถ Take a short walk after meals
- ๐ซ Avoid trigger foods like spicy and fried items
- ๐ญ Quit smoking and limit alcohol
โ DO:
- ๐ฝ๏ธ Eat small portions
- ๐ถ Walk after meals
- ๐๏ธ Sleep with head elevated
- ๐ง Drink adequate water
- ๐ง Manage stress
โ DONโT:
- ๐ Eat junk or fried food
- ๐ Lie down immediately after meals
- ๐ฌ Smoke
- โ Drink excess coffee
- ๐ซ Overeat chocolates
๐น Diagnosis at DUOMPRIME CARE MEDICAL CENTER
Our doctors may recommend:
- ๐ฉบ Clinical examination
- ๐ Medical history review
- ๐ Endoscopy (if required)
- ๐ฅ Diet and lifestyle assessment
Our goal is not just symptom relief, but long-term prevention.
๐น Treatment Options
At DUOMPRIME CARE MEDICAL CENTER, gastric reflux is managed with:
- ๐ Medications to reduce acid production
- ๐ฉบ Medical evaluation to identify the cause
- ๐ฝ๏ธ Diet and lifestyle guidance
- ๐ Regular follow-ups
- ๐ Long-term care for chronic reflux
Early treatment helps prevent complications such as ulcers, esophageal damage, and chronic discomfort.
๐น When Should You Visit a Doctor?
๐จ Consult a doctor immediately if:
- Symptoms occur more than twice a week
- Pain is severe or persistent
- Difficulty in swallowing
- Unexplained weight loss
- Vomiting blood or black stools
๐ฟ Final Note
Gastric reflux is common but treatable. With proper care, healthy habits, and timely medical attention, you can live comfortably without daily discomfort.
๐ Visit DUOMPRIME CARE MEDICAL CENTER for expert consultation and personalized treatment for gastric reflux and other digestive health concerns.
