Occasional acid reflux is usually harmless, but frequent reflux, known as GERD, becomes dangerous as chronic stomach acid exposure can damage the esophagus, leading to inflammation (esophagitis), ulcers, scarring (strictures) that make swallowing difficult, and precancerous cell changes (Barrett's esophagus) that increase the risk of esophageal cancer if left untreated.
Treating acid reflux in kids involves lifestyle changes like upright feeding, smaller meals, and avoiding trigger foods (spicy, fatty, caffeine) for infants, with medications like H2 blockers or Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs) prescribed if needed, though surgery is rare; always consult a doctor for diagnosis and treatment, as many children outgrow it.
See a GP if:
lifestyle changes and pharmacy medicines are not helping your heartburn. you have heartburn most days. you also have other symptoms, like food getting stuck in your throat, frequently being sick, or losing weight for no reason.
Although it is possible to lead a normal life with GERD, people with this condition often feel that their acid reflux symptoms interfere with their quality of life. 1 This is why it is important to see a healthcare provider rather than trying to self-treat your symptoms.
To stop pregnancy acid reflux, eat small meals slowly, avoid trigger foods (spicy, fatty, citrus, caffeine, carbonation), stay upright for hours after eating, and elevate your head when sleeping; if lifestyle changes aren't enough, your doctor might recommend pregnancy-safe antacids or other medications.
Although GERD symptoms can make you uncomfortable, they aren't likely to affect the outcomes of your pregnancy.
To get fast acid reflux relief, use quick-acting antacids (like Tums, Rolaids) for immediate neutralization or try home remedies like baking soda in water, sipping ginger tea, eating a banana, or drinking aloe vera juice, while also adjusting posture by standing up or elevating your head. For longer-lasting relief, H2 blockers (Pepcid AC) or proton pump inhibitors (Prilosec) are stronger but take more time to work, so focus on antacids and lifestyle changes for speed.
Acid reflux happens when the sphincter muscle at the lower end of your esophagus isn't working as it should, allowing stomach acid to back up into your esophagus. This can cause heartburn and other signs and symptoms. Frequent or constant reflux can lead to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
Untreated acid reflux can also result in scarring in your esophagus, causing strictures, which are difficult to treat because additional acid damage occurs. Most importantly, when you delay the management of acid reflux, you can develop a condition called Barrett's esophagus.
“The reason why gastroesophageal reflux disease happens is that there is a mechanical breakdown of the natural antireflux barrier, which sits between the esophagus and the stomach,” Dr. Hubka said. “That has to do with the lower esophageal sphincter or by herniation of the top of the stomach into the chest.
When Does Reflux Peak in Babies? Reflux usually starts in babies before they reach 8 weeks of age. During this early stage of infancy, it usually reaches its peak as your baby's digestive system is still developing.
Symptoms
The vomiting that affects many babies and children with GERD can cause problems with weight gain and poor nutrition. Over time, when stomach acid backs up into the esophagus, it can also lead to: Inflammation of the esophagus, called esophagitis. Sores or ulcers in the esophagus, which can be painful and may bleed.
Having acid reflux doesn't necessarily mean you have a medical condition. GERD, on the other hand, is a chronic medical condition. This means it is an ongoing disease with acid reflux causing symptoms two or more times a week.
Some research suggests that inflammation in the esophagitis from GERD can take 8 weeks or longer to heal with lifestyle changes and medications. However, these measures will not fully cure GERD. Treatments can include a combination of lifestyle changes and medications.
Persistent heartburn or reflux should never be ignored. Long-term reflux can damage the oesophagus and may increase cancer risk. Lifestyle, diet, and gut health can all influence reflux, especially if medication isn't enough. Seek medical advice if symptoms last more than a few weeks, worsen, or change.
Anxiety can weaken the lower esophageal sphincter muscle, making it easier for stomach acid to rise into the esophagus and cause a burning sensation in the chest ( heartburn ). In addition, anxiety can also interfere with esophageal movement, which contributes to acid reflux.
Treatment Options in the ER
These treatment options may include: Medications: ER physicians may prescribe medications to reduce stomach acid production, neutralize acid, or strengthen the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) to obstruct acid reflux.
Answer: Bile reflux involves fluid from the small intestine flowing into the stomach and esophagus. Acid reflux is backflow of stomach acid into the esophagus. These conditions are often related, and sometimes differentiating between the two can be difficult.
There is no simple answer as to whether people can reverse the damage GERD causes. It depends on many things, including the severity and duration of symptoms, what other parts of the body are harmed, and the person's overall health.
The Relationship Between Acid Reflux and Throat Problems
The ongoing inflammation can become a chronic problem that leads to other conditions, including esophagitis. It can also lead to chronic inflammation that creates permanent scarring, bleeding, or lead to the development of painful ulcers.
Full-fat yogurts may actually trigger acid reflux symptoms in sensitive individuals. Opt for low-fat or non-fat versions if you're managing heartburn. Flavored yogurts can contain high levels of sugar, artificial sweeteners, and additives that may irritate your stomach and increase acid production.
Acid reflux might happen after a large, rich meal, or when you lie down too soon after dinner. Stomach acid rises into your esophagus, causing heartburn and other symptoms. Occasional acid reflux is manageable at home, but chronic acid reflux (GERD) might need treatment.
Low-impact exercises like walking and yoga are best for people with regular acid reflux symptoms. Running, jumping, and other high-impact exercises may worsen symptoms. Time your meals, stay hydrated, and wear loose-fitting workout clothes to manage acid reflux while exercising.