MANAGING ACIDITY AND REFLUX: ADVICE FROM A WAKAD GASTROENTEROLOGIST

Managing Acidity and Reflux: Advice from a Wakad Gastroenterologist

Managing Acidity and Reflux: Advice from a Wakad Gastroenterologist

Blog Article

Managing Acidity and Reflux: Advice from a Wakad Gastroenterologist

 (By Dr. Yogesh Bade, Consultant Gastroenterologist – Excel Gastro & Gynae Clinic, Wakad
 Over 10+ Years of Experience in Digestive Health)

Acidity and acid reflux have become common health complaints in today’s fast-paced lifestyle. Spicy foods, irregular eating habits, stress, and poor sleep often contribute to digestive disturbances, leading to frequent heartburn, bloating, and discomfort. As a Gastroenterologist in Wakad with over a decade of experience, I’ve seen these issues significantly impact people’s quality of life – but the good news is, they are both manageable and preventable with the right approach.

In this article, I’ll explain what acidity and reflux are, why they occur, and most importantly, how you can manage them effectively with guidance from a qualified Gastroenterologist in Wakad.

 

Understanding Acidity and Reflux


Acidity refers to the excessive production of stomach acid, which may lead to symptoms like:

  • Heartburn (burning sensation in the chest)


  • Sour taste in the mouth


  • Bloating


  • Belching


  • Nausea



Reflux, particularly Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), is a condition where stomach acid flows backward into the food pipe (esophagus), irritating its lining.

While occasional acidity is common, frequent or severe symptoms may indicate an underlying issue that requires medical attention from an experienced Gastroenterologist in Wakad.

 

Common Triggers of Acidity & Reflux


Many patients I treat at Excel Gastro & Gynae Clinic in Wakad are unaware that their daily habits contribute to acid reflux. Here are some of the most common triggers:

 

  • Spicy, oily, and fried foods

  • Late-night meals or eating large meals before bedtime


  • Excessive caffeine or tea


  • Alcohol and smoking


  • Obesity


  • Prolonged stress and anxiety


  • Irregular eating patterns



Understanding and identifying these triggers is the first step toward lasting relief.

 

When to See a Gastroenterologist in Wakad


If you experience acidity or reflux more than twice a week, or if over-the-counter antacids aren’t providing long-term relief, it’s time to see a Gastroenterologist in Wakad.

At our clinic, I commonly evaluate symptoms such as:

  • Persistent heartburn


  • Difficulty swallowing


  • Chronic cough or sore throat


  • Feeling of a lump in the throat


  • Chest pain not related to the heart



Ignoring these signs can lead to complications like ulcers, esophagitis (inflammation of the esophagus), or even Barrett’s esophagus – a pre-cancerous condition that must be managed under expert gastro care.

 

Diagnostic Approach at Excel Gastro & Gynae Clinic


With over 10 years of clinical experience as a Gastroenterologist in Wakad, I follow a patient-first, evidence-based approach. Depending on your symptoms, I may recommend:

  • Upper GI Endoscopy – to visually examine the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum


  • pH Monitoring – to assess acid levels in the esophagus


  • Ultrasound/Scan – to rule out gallbladder or liver issues


  • Lifestyle and Diet Review – to identify personalized triggers



Each diagnosis is tailored to the individual – there is no one-size-fits-all in digestive health.

 

Treatment Options: Medical and Lifestyle


Medications



  • Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs): Reduce acid production and allow healing.


  • H2 Blockers: Decrease acid, sometimes used alongside PPIs.


  • Antacids: Provide short-term relief by neutralizing existing acid.



Lifestyle Modifications (Highly Effective)



  • Eat smaller, more frequent meals


  • Avoid lying down within 2-3 hours after meals


  • Elevate the head of your bed slightly


  • Quit smoking and limit alcohol


  • Lose weight if overweight


  • Reduce caffeine and spicy food intake



These practical lifestyle changes, guided by a qualified Gastroenterologist in Wakad, can offer lasting relief.

 

Diet Tips for Acid Reflux Patients


At Excel Gastro & Gynae Clinic, we provide customized dietary plans for every patient. However, here are some general guidelines:

Foods to Include:

  • Oatmeal, brown rice, whole grains


  • Bananas, apples, melons


  • Green leafy vegetables


  • Ginger and herbal teas


  • Low-fat dairy and lean proteins



Foods to Avoid:

  • Citrus fruits, tomatoes


  • Coffee, carbonated drinks


  • Chocolates and mint


  • Fried and fatty foods



Keeping a food diary can help identify your specific dietary triggers, a strategy I often recommend as a practicing Gastroenterologist in Wakad.

 

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