Heartburn? Have a sour taste in your mouth all the time? It could be because of this common digestive issue

While GERD, accompanied by belching, might be physiological (normal), excessive reflux can cause complications such as esophagitis (Image: Canva)

Are you experiencing a burning sensation in your chest after meals, accompanied by a sour taste in your throat? It could be because of gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD). More and more people are being diagnosed with this common digestive issue, which mirrors the rise in consumption of processed and fried foods.

The burning factors:

The underlying causes for gastro-esophageal reflux disease include a high body mass index, pregnancy, smoking, mental health issues like anxiety and depression, and reduced physical activity. The risk is higher among older adults. The nature of the food consumed, particularly its acidic properties, significantly contributes to the development of this condition. Binge eating is also a risk factor for GERD.

Recognising GERD:

Symptoms aiding in diagnosis include heartburn, one of the most common manifestations seen in GERD. You may also experience an acidic, burning sensation in the chest that may extend toward the mouth. Additionally, you could notice a sour taste in the back of the throat accompanied by regurgitation. Chest pain can also occur, requiring differentiation from cardiac pathology. Patients with GERD commonly report coughing, wheezing, nausea, and vomiting.

Complications of GERD:

While GERD, accompanied by belching, might be physiological (normal), excessive reflux can cause complications such as esophagitis. Inflammation of the esophagus can lead to upper gastrointestinal tract bleeding involving the esophagus, stomach, and small intestine. This may result in coffee-coloured vomit, blood in faeces (melena), and anaemia. If left untreated, the esophagus may undergo malignant changes leading to cancer.

Here are some effective measures that could help prevent gastro-esophageal reflux disease:

Keep your BMI in check: Keeping the body mass index (BMI) in the normal range can help in preventing acid reflux. While it may not be a precise measure of health, it is a good indicator for identifying whether your weight is controlled or not.

Reduce smoking: While suddenly quitting smoking may not be easy, it is necessary to reduce this habit until you are not addicted anymore gradually. Smoking causes the lower esophageal sphincter to act inadequately, thus promoting acid reflux. Nicotine patches and daily affirmations have been suggested to help control smoking.

Avoid lying down soon after a meal: While it may be tempting to lie down after a sumptuous lunch (or dinner), it may trigger the reflux. This can be prevented by walking a little after a meal and only retiring to bed 2-3 hours following a meal.

Be wary of triggers: There are some food items that have been known to trigger acid reflux. Some of them include alcohol, caffeine products, chocolates, peppermints, and fatty and oily or spicy food items. Fried food, pizzas and processed products must be kept at bay to help avoid GERD.

Exercise: Adding a regular routine of physical activity (besides the usual) to your daily calendar can be beneficial in preventing heartburn. Experts recommend light jogging and walking. Yoga is also a great way of dealing with GERD. A number of poses have become popular in this regard, including Bhujangasana (the Cobra Pose).

If the symptoms persist or become difficult to bear, don't delay consulting a gastroenterologist.