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Gastroesophageal reflux or acid reflux is when acid from the stomach flows back into the food pipe or esophagus, which connects the throat to your stomach. In addition to a burning sensation in your chest, the acid reflex significantly affects your throat as well. To know more about it, the OnlyMyHealth editorial team talked to Dr Rachna Mehta Shroff, Head and Neck Surgeon and ENT (Otorhinolaryngologist), popular on Instagram as doctorrmshroff,
“Many over-the-counter medicines are available to temporarily relieve acidity or acid reflux. But the important thing is why this disease is occurring in the first place. And the answer is because of the lifestyle we live today. A few lifestyle and dietary changes can help prevent this acid reflux in the long run,” said Dr Mehta.
Effects of Acid Reflux on Throat
Due to acid reflux, one can experience the following:
- Throat irritation and inflammation
- A lumpy feeling in the throat
- Issues on voice
How To Prevent The Impact Of Acid Reflux On Throat
diet
Along with coffee, chocolate, fried, spicy, and oily foods, reduce the intake of citrus fruits, garlic, onions, and aerated drinks to prevent acid reflux. Since it is not possible to stop the absolute consumption of these food items, one should try to reduce the intake of these substances.
Also read: 7 Things to Know About Acid Reflux
Have Small Frequent Meals
Dr Mehta said, “Eat small meals throughout the day. It should not be the case that one has dinner eight hours after having lunch while staying empty stomach between the two meals. You should have small frequent meals, which can include some biscuits and small fruit.”
Avoid Tea, Coffee On An Empty Stomach
A morning stomach is an empty stomach, and when you drink tea or coffee first thing, it can be harmful, especially if you have a problem with acid reflux. So instead of drinking tea or coffee, eat your food and then drink your tea or coffee.
Early Dinner
One should have their dinner early, at 8 O’clock in the urban lifestyle but not later than that.
drink water
Drinking plenty of water will help lower the chances of acid reflux. Water will balance the pH level and lower the likelihood of acid reflux.
No Alcohol Or Smoking
Avoid smoking and drinking alcohol, as they cause dryness of the throat and increase the risk of acid reflux.
Also read: Can Acid Reflux Cause Headache or Migraine?
No Naps Immediately After Meals
Avoid lying or napping immediately after having heavy meals. “You should be in the upright position for one hour, either sitting or standing,” said Dr Mehta.
Head Elevation While Sleeping
Keep your head elevated while sleeping, nearly 30 degrees. “You can do this by keeping pillows or bricks under the bed’s head end. This will help in elevation and prevent acid reflux,” suggested Dr Mehta.
Lose Excess Weight
To further prevent acid reflux, lose excess weight, especially around the stomach, also known as central obesity.
stress
“Stress is often neglected but an important factor for acid reflux. Any type of physical and mental stress can increase the acidity in the stomach and cause acid reflux,” highlighted Dr Mehta. In addition, a poor sleep cycle impacts acidity, which can lead to acid reflux.
Image Credits: freepik
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