Acid Reflux FAQs

Yes, acid reflux can cause breathing problems. When acid from the stomach refluxes up the oesophagus and it may reach the voice box and then irritates the trachea or the lungs. This can create a reflex narrowing of the airways, leading to coughing, wheezing, or asthma-like symptoms. This is more common during the night when lying down may worsen reflux. If breathing issues are severe, consult a doctor immediately.

Almonds may help some people with acid reflux because it has a large natural oil content, which can neutralize stomach acid. However, their fat content might worsen symptoms for others. To find out how almonds affect you, start with a small amount and monitor your symptoms.

Here are steps to find relief during an acid reflux attack:

• Stay upright: Sitting or standing can prevent acid from rising further.
• Drink water: Sipping water can dilute stomach acid.
• Chew gum: Gum stimulates saliva, which may help wash acid down.
• Use antacids: Over-the-counter antacids can provide quick relief. If symptoms persist, consult a healthcare provider.

Yes, exercise can help manage acid reflux, especially low-impact activities like walking, yoga, or cycling, which promote weight management. However, high-impact workouts or exercises that involve bending over can make symptoms worse. Aim for exercises that don’t put excess pressure on your abdomen.

Acid reflux attacks can vary in duration, typically lasting from a few minutes to several hours, depending on the severity and cause. Making lifestyle adjustments and using over-the-counter medications can help minimize attack frequency and duration.

Acid reflux refers to the backflow of stomach acid into the esophagus, causing discomfort like heartburn. GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease) is the medical term describing this condition and it can become chronic and may cause complications like esophageal damage if left untreated.

Without treatment, GERD can lead to:

• Oesophagitis: Irritation and inflammation of the esophagus.
• Oesophageal strictures: Narrowing of the esophagus from scar tissue, making swallowing difficult.
• Barrett’s esophagus: A condition in which the esophagus lining changes, increasing the risk of esophageal cancer.
• Respiratory issues: Chronic cough, asthma, or aspiration pneumonia due to acid entering the airways.

Yes, GERD can cause chest pain, often described as a burning or pressing sensation. It can be mistakened as pain from an heart-attack as the acid in the oesophagus may trigger severe painful oesophageal spasm. However, chest pain from heart-related issues typically feels more crushing or tight and may spread to the arms, neck, or back. If you’re unsure or if the pain is sudden and severe, seek immediate medical attention to rule out heart problems.

• Pain relievers like aspirin or ibuprofen.
• Certain blood pressure medications (calcium channel blockers).
• Sedatives or anti-anxiety drugs.
• Some asthma medications.
• Antibiotics or steroids

Yes, surgery may be an option for GERD patients who don’t respond well to medications and lifestyle changes. Common procedures include:

• Nissen’s fundoplication: This procedure involves your surgeon wrapping the upper portion of your stomach completely around the lower section of your esophagus to repair   any weakness in the muscle sphincter of the stomach/oesophagus..
• Partial fundoplication: In this procedure, the surgeon partially wraps your stomach around the esophagus. Techniques include the Dor (anterior 180°–200°) and the Toupet (posterior 270°) methods.

Yes, if GERD is left untreated, the constant exposure to stomach acid can damage the oesophageal lining. This may lead to Barrett’s esophagus, which increases the risk of oesophageal cancer. Regular medical check-ups and treatment can help minimize these risks.

GERD symptoms like heartburn, regurgitation, and difficulty swallowing are common, but they can overlap with other issues like gastritis, ulcers, or gallbladder disease. If symptoms are persistent or unusual (e.g., severe pain, bleeding, or unintentional weight loss), see a doctor for proper diagnosis.