Acid reflux impacts about 20% of American adults. What causes it?
Acid reflux impacts about 20% of American adults. What causes it?
Show Caption
Hide Caption
Psychologist reveals surprising symptoms of anxiety
Dr. Ali Mattu explains how small symptoms like muscle soreness or an upset stomach could indicate anxiety.
So you're feeling that uncomfortable burning sensation in your chest. Your mouth tastes bitter or sour. The back of your throat is burning.
While the occasional heartburn episode usually isn't an indicator of anything major, continuous and recurring symptoms may be an indication of a health issue, such as acid reflux, that's worth consulting your doctor about.
"Acid reflux can be managed by most people if they learn the behavior changes they can make and how to appropriately use over-the-counter medications," gastroenterologist Dr. Brijen Shah, a spokesperson for the American Gastroenterological Association, tells USA TODAY.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) impacts about 20% of adults in the U.S., and is more common in women and those who are older, according to the American Medical Association (AMA).
Here's what medical experts want you to know about the causes and treatments related to acid reflux.
GERD, explained: Left untreated, heartburn can turn into this more serious digestive disease
What causes acid reflux?
Acid reflux is referred to in the medical community as gastroesophageal reflux (GER), or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) for more severe and long-lasting cases. Both occur when the acidic contents of your stomach are regurgitated up into your esophagus, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH).
"Acid reflux is either caused by conditions or foods that increase the production of acid or situations or foods which might cause the lower esophageal sphincter to excessively relax, allowing acid and food contents to travel into the esophagus," Shah explains. "We think of acid reflux as a chronic condition that comes and goes." More and more research shows it has a relationship to distress as well as diet.
Some causes of GERD include being overweight or obese, being pregnant, having a hiatal hernia and smoking or being exposed to smoke. Certain medications can also cause or irritate existing acid reflux symptoms, including benzodiazepines, calcium channel blockers, certain asthma medications, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and tricyclic antidepressants, according to NIH.
What does heartburn feel like? What to know to recognize the symptoms
How to get rid of acid reflux
In most cases, acid reflux can actually be eradicated for good. Having a hiatal hernia will prolong your symptoms, but in other instances, you can fix your acid reflux, medical experts say.
"Most acid reflux can be alleviated with changes in behavior," Shah says. "This can include avoiding certain items such as fried or spicy food, alcohol, tobacco, excessive amounts of chocolate or peppermint. Also, eating large quantities of food can lead to increase acid production and acid reflux. Sometimes making sure that you say sit upright for 60 minutes after eating can also help prevent acid reflux."
While lifestyle changes are often the first line of defense against acid reflux, doctors may recommend other measures if those changes prove to not be enough to eradicate symptoms. Some next-level treatments include over-the-counter or prescription medications, such as antacids, foaming agents, histamine (H2) blockers or protein pump inhibitors.
For others, surgery may be a better option compared to long-term medication usage. Common surgeries, according to Northwestern Medicine, include Nissen fundoplication — in which the upper part of the stomach is wrapped around the lower esophageal sphincter in order to fix a hiatal hernia and prevent acid reflux — or the Linx procedure, in which a mental ring is implanted at the lower esophageal sphincter in order to create a reflux-preventing barrier.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Yahoo
3 hours ago
- Yahoo
Jolly Ranchers Hit With 'Do Not Eat' Warning in U.K.
Consumers have been advised against eating a popular American candy after a health agency determined that the beloved sweet treat is "of toxicological concern." According to a report from The Independent, the Food Standards Agency (FSA) in the United Kingdom has issued a warning to consumers about an ingredient in Jolly Rancher candies – a beloved hard candy owned by the Hershey Company. The FSA warns that Jolly Rancher candies contain mineral oils, which include mineral oil aromatic hydrocarbons (Moah) and mineral oil saturated hydrocarbons (Mosh). These chemical compounds are added to confectionery items to prevent stickiness and to create a glossy appearance, like that of the Jolly Rancher candies. However, the FSA warns that when consumed regularly over time, these mineral oils may pose health risks, especially in younger consumers. The agency warned of cancer risk and the possibility of damaged DNA. 'Consumption of the affected sweets is of toxicological concern, especially in younger age groups and where consumers eat a lot of the products or eat them regularly," the FSA warned in an alert published Wednesday, according to The Independent. 'Moah can cause damage to DNA and has the potential to increase the risk of cancer, particularly if consumed in high quantities over a prolonged period of time. Moah is a genotoxic carcinogen, therefore no exposure is without risk to human health.' The Independent reports that Hershey has been working with the FSA to remove all Jolly Rancher products from the UK market since 2024, though they continue to be imported despite these efforts. The FSA has a simple warning for anybody who has purchased Jolly Rancher Hard Candy, "Misfits" Gummies, Hard Candy Fruity 2 in 1, and Berry Gummies: "do not eat them." 'If you have bought any of the above products, do not eat them," the FSA warned. 'Instead, dispose of them at home. If you are concerned, notify your Trading Standards department or environmental health department in the local authority you purchased it. 'For consumers, don't buy them, and if you've eaten these products, there should be no immediate cause for concern, as food safety risk is low, but don't eat any more.' It's worth noting that the Food and Drug Administration in the United States has not issued a warning about any health risks associated with the candies, and they are still permitted to be sold in the United States. Still, given this information from another health agency in another country, American consumers might still be a bit wary of consuming the popular candy going forward. Jolly Ranchers Hit With 'Do Not Eat' Warning in U.K. first appeared on Men's Journal on Jun 13, 2025
Forbes
3 hours ago
- Forbes
7 Tattoo Health Risks To Consider Before Getting Inked
Increasing research shows that getting tattoos carry both short and long-term health risks Historically, tattoos existed at the fringe of society. But today, tattoos are mainstream — gracing the skin of athletes, celebrities, professionals and everyday people. According to the Pew Research Center, a third of American adults have a tattoo and 22% have more than one. Yet a growing body of research shows that health risks from tattoos are real. Here's are seven tattoo health risks to consider before sitting down to get a tattoo (or another one). The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates cosmetic pigments used in makeup and skincare products. Yet tattoo inks operate in a regulatory gray zone. They are not subject to the same premarket safety testing. Many commercially available tattoo inks contain hazardous substances — including heavy metals like lead, mercury, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and primary aromatic amines (PAAs) formed from azo dyes. One review found that benzo(a)pyrene, a potent carcinogen found in PAHs, is present in black tattoo ink. Red and yellow inks are especially concerning because they often contain cadmium. Roughly 10% of people with tattoos experience chronic skin conditions, such as itching, redness, swelling or pain can last long after the original tattoo heals. These reactions are even more common in tattoos more than 10 years old or those with red or colored inks. Delayed hypersensitivity reactions can also occur – called granulomatous or lichenoid responses, presenting as raised bumps or nodules on or near the tattoo. Red pigments are commonly the culprit. These skin reactions sometimes require biopsies, topical or systemic steroids or at times, surgical removal. Tattoo-related reactions can also mimic or mask serious skin diseases. For example, tattoo pigment may obscure early skin cancers like melanomas or interfere with lymph node evaluations during cancer staging. Even in professional studios with sterile technique, infections are a real risk. Bacterial infections are most common, which can often be successfully treated with antibiotics. However, ink contamination during manufacturing has also been implicated in outbreaks of infections. Most tattoo infections are mild and localized. Yet others can become severe, especially in people with compromised immunity. There have been rare reports of systemic infections, including sepsis and necrotizing fasciitis (i.e. flesh-eating bacteria). When tattoo pigments are deposited into the dermis of the skin, the ink can migrate to lymph nodes. Emerging research suggests tattoos may be associated with increased cancer risk — particularly skin cancers and lymphomas. A 2025 Danish twin cohort study found that individuals with large tattoos had a nearly 3-fold risk of these cancers. While this study do not yet prove a direct causal link, the large effect size is concerning. Nevertheless, case reports have described malignant tumors developing within tattoos, including melanomas. Whether tattoo pigments play a direct role in cancer development or simply create local environments conducive to cancer remains unclear. Additionally, some tattoo pigments degrade under laser removal or sun exposure. This can potentially generate cancer-causing byproducts like PAAs. This means not only the initial exposure but also later decisions —like removal – can increase cancer risks. Tattooing may also play a role in triggering or worsening autoimmune diseases. Case reports and clinical studies have linked tattoos to conditions such as sarcoidosis, psoriasis, lupus and pyoderma gangrenosum. Tattooed areas can become what doctors call 'immunocompromised districts': sites of localized immune dysregulation. This can predispose to viral infections like warts and conditions like molluscum contagiosum – small, firm, dome-like bumps. These can emerge months or even years after tattooing. This highlights the importance of screening individuals with autoimmune conditions before tattooing. Removing tattoos is far more difficult than getting them. Laser-based removal requires multiple sessions and may not fully eliminate all the pigment. Removal of larger tattoos can run $5,000 to $10,000. Removal can also lead to scarring, skin discoloration (either lightening or darkening) and allergic reactions. Laser treatment may even cause allergic or systemic symptoms not present before removal, especially when pigment particles are broken down and enter the bloodstream. Tattoo regret rate is high — especially among younger people who may not consider the long-term consequences. This may occur when the artwork no longer aligns with identity, religious beliefs or professional goals. Tattoo regret also can increase depression and anxiety. In certain sectors (e.g. military, law enforcement, or corporate environments), visible tattoos may limit employment opportunities. People may also face stigma or stereotyping, particularly in conservative or culturally traditional settings. Tattoos can be an art form, a rite of passage or a personal statement. But increasingly, research reveals that some of the risks of tattoos are potentially serious. Yet this doesn't mean people need to avoid tattoos if they really want one. Millions enjoy their tattoos without complications. For people who have decided to get a tattoo, here are six ways to reduce (some of) the tattoo health risks: As with any decision, knowledge is power. When it comes to tattoo health risks, the evidence is clear: the risks are more than skin deep.
Hamilton Spectator
4 hours ago
- Hamilton Spectator
Fentanyl czar says government's border bill will help in fight against lethal drug
OTTAWA - Canada's fentanyl czar says the fight against the deadly opioid would get a boost from proposed new tools for law enforcement in the Liberal government's recently tabled border bill. Kevin Brosseau, the federal point person on fentanyl, welcomes provisions in the Strong Borders Act to increase inspection powers, give police easier access to information, crack down on money laundering and improve control of chemicals used to make the drug. Brosseau was appointed fentanyl commissioner in February in response to the White House's vocal concerns about the southbound flow of the synthetic opioid into the United States — criticism it used to justify tariffs against Canada. In an interview, Brosseau said Canada is 'not the significant source' of fentanyl entering the United States, but reiterated his stance that being the source of any of the drug is a concern because small amounts can have devastating effects. Brosseau, a former senior Mountie, said his American counterparts have expressed 'deep appreciation' for Canada's efforts to address fentanyl, given the U.S. focus on hardening the border and protecting the homeland. He said they want to take additional steps in 'a collaborative approach' with Canada to address any gaps in areas such as information sharing. As a result, Brosseau said, his message of integrating and amplifying the work on fentanyl north of the border 'has been well received' by the Americans. 'We know domestically, in communities across this country, there is a problem with fentanyl production, supply, trafficking and use,' he said. An average of about 21 people a day are dying in Canada from using the drug, 'and that's what incentivizes me to act and do something.' The Liberal government's wide-ranging border bill has drawn pointed criticism from civil libertarians and refugee protection advocates. The legislation contains several elements Brosseau sees as helpful in tackling fentanyl, including a requirement that owners and operators at certain ports provide facilities for the Canada Border Services Agency to examine and detain goods bound for export. The bill would also remove barriers that prevent police from searching mail to advance a criminal investigation, where authorized to do so under the law, and expand Canada Post's inspection authority to open mail. The legislation would also make it easier for authorities to access information about internet subscribers, enable the health minister to more rapidly control precursor chemicals that can be used to produce illicit drugs and introduce new restrictions on large cash transactions. Brosseau suggested a comprehensive approach is key because, otherwise, fighting fentanyl producers and traffickers becomes a game of whack-a-mole, with a new vulnerability popping up as soon as one is eliminated. 'Criminal organizations are incredibly adept at figuring out what the weak points are, and when the weak points are found, they will be exploited until you close it off,' he said. The proposed legislation builds on earlier Canadian border security measures, including the introduction of round-the-clock border surveillance using helicopters, drones and towers. Ottawa is also working with Washington on a North American 'joint strike force' to target organized crime groups that work across borders. Overall, Brosseau is taking a broad view of the fentanyl problem, stressing the need to hold those who profit from the drug accountable and make sure authorities have the needed tools, while also putting programs in place to help addicted people find a path to recovery. 'I call it an all-of-society approach,' he said. 'And the conversations I have with everybody (are) that there are no free rides in this.' Brosseau said the scourge of fentanyl and other opioids has become a concern on his street among 'parents like me' — part of a larger national conversation. He said he's in a position to provide some comfort and security to fellow parents worried about their children who might be exposed to drugs, and solace to those who are going through heartache by showing 'that we're going to do something about it.' This report by The Canadian Press was first published June 13, 2025. Error! Sorry, there was an error processing your request. There was a problem with the recaptcha. Please try again. You may unsubscribe at any time. By signing up, you agree to our terms of use and privacy policy . This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google privacy policy and terms of service apply. Want more of the latest from us? Sign up for more at our newsletter page .
