Why Do I Get Acid Frequently? This is a common question among individuals who suffer from frequent acidity. Acidity is a common digestive issue that affects millions of people worldwide. If you frequently experience a burning sensation in your chest or discomfort in your stomach, you may be suffering from frequent acidity. But why does it happen so often? Understanding the causes of acidity and learning how to manage acidity effectively can help you find long-term relief.
What is Acidity?
Acidity occurs when the stomach produces excess acid, leading to symptoms of acidity such as heartburn, indigestion, and a sour taste in the mouth. This condition is primarily caused by the backflow of stomach acid into the esophagus, a phenomenon known as acid reflux. If left untreated, frequent acidity can lead to more severe issues like Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD).
Common Causes of Frequent Acidity
- Unhealthy Eating Habits: Consuming spicy, oily, and highly processed foods can trigger acidity. Additionally, drinking excessive caffeine, alcohol, and carbonated beverages can irritate the stomach lining and cause frequent acidity.
- Overeating and Large Meals: Eating large portions at once puts excessive pressure on the stomach, increasing the likelihood of acid reflux. Eating late at night and lying down immediately after meals can also worsen symptoms of acidity.
- Obesity: Excess body weight, especially around the abdomen, can put pressure on the stomach and push acid up into the esophagus, leading to frequent acidity.
- Smoking: Smoking weakens the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), the muscle that prevents stomach acid from flowing back into the esophagus. This can significantly contribute to acid reflux and persistent acidity.
- Stress and Anxiety: High-stress levels can impact digestion and increase acid production in the stomach, making symptoms of acidity worse. Stress-induced habits like skipping meals or excessive caffeine intake can also trigger acidity.
- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): GERD is a chronic digestive disorder where stomach acid frequently flows back into the esophagus, causing persistent heartburn and discomfort. If you experience acidity more than twice a week, you might have GERD.
- Hiatal Hernia: A hiatal hernia occurs when the upper part of the stomach pushes through the diaphragm into the chest cavity, making it easier for acid to travel up the esophagus and causing frequent acidity.
- Pregnancy: Hormonal changes and increased pressure on the stomach during pregnancy can lead to acid reflux and frequent acidity in expecting mothers.
- Certain Medications: Some medications, such as pain relievers (NSAIDs), antibiotics, and blood pressure medications, can irritate the stomach lining and cause acidity.
Symptoms of Acidity
- Heartburn – A burning sensation in the chest, usually after eating
- Regurgitation – Sour or bitter-tasting acid backing up into the throat or mouth
- Bloating – A feeling of fullness or tightness in the stomach
- Burping – Frequent belching after meals
- Nausea – Feeling sick or uneasy in the stomach
- Chronic Cough – A persistent cough caused by stomach acid irritating the throat
- Difficulty Swallowing – Feeling like food is stuck in the throat due to inflammation
How to Manage Acidity and Prevent Frequent Acidity
- Eat Smaller, More Frequent Meals: Instead of consuming large meals, eat smaller portions throughout the day. This reduces pressure on the stomach and prevents excessive acid production.
- Avoid Trigger Foods: Limit the intake of spicy, fried, and acidic foods such as tomatoes, citrus fruits, chocolate, caffeine, and alcohol. Opt for a balanced diet rich in fiber and lean proteins to manage acidity.
- Lose Excess Weight: Maintaining a healthy weight reduces pressure on the stomach and decreases the chances of acid reflux. Regular exercise and a balanced diet can help prevent frequent acidity.
- Quit Smoking: Giving up smoking improves overall digestion and strengthens the lower esophageal sphincter, reducing the likelihood of acid reflux.
- Reduce Stress: Engaging in stress-relieving activities such as yoga, meditation, and deep breathing exercises can improve digestion and help manage acidity.
- Elevate Your Head While Sleeping: Keeping your head elevated by 6-8 inches while sleeping prevents stomach acid from travelling back into the esophagus, reducing night time acidity.
- Avoid Lying Down After Eating: Wait at least 2-3 hours after eating before lying down to allow proper digestion and prevent acid reflux.
- Consult a Doctor for Persistent Symptoms: If frequent acidity persists despite lifestyle changes, consult a gastro doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment. Chronic acidity may indicate an underlying condition that requires medical attention.
Conclusion
If you have ever wondered, “Why do I get acidity frequently?” Understanding the causes of acidity and learning how to manage acidity can help you achieve relief. Making simple lifestyle changes such as adjusting your diet, maintaining a healthy weight, and reducing stress can help prevent frequent acidity and improve your digestive health. However, if symptoms of acidity persist, consulting a Gastro Surgeon in Ahmedabad like Dr. Varun Bajaj can provide personalized treatment and long-term relief.
