Latest news with #GastroesophagealReflux
The Hindu
20-07-2025
- Health
- The Hindu
Early diagnosis, simple lifestyle changes can prevent GERD complications: experts
Doctors stressed the need for early diagnosis and simple lifestyle changes to prevent further complications on GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease), a digestive disorder, at a webinar 'GERD-free Living: From Burn to Balance' on Sunday. The discussion was the final episode of the 15-part webinar series under the 'Healthy India Happy India initiative' by Naruvi Hospitals in collaboration with The Hindu. A panel of gastroenterologists, including E. Rabindranath and Jacob Raja A.S., both consultants at Naruvi Hospitals, Vellore, along with A.C. Arun, clinical lead, Gastroenterology at Lily Mission Hospital, Madurai, spoke on common concerns over GERD. Explaining the digestive system and the role of esophageal sphincter, Dr. Jacob said that the sphincter acts as the gateway between the lower esophagus and the stomach to prevent regurgitation. 'When the Gastroesophageal Reflux (GER) happens multiple times in a week impacting quality of life, work and sleep and causes symptoms such as persistent heart burn, chest pain, trouble in swallowing, then it can turn into a chronic medical condition called the GERD and requires treatment,' he said. Dr. Jacob said the global burden of GERD was quite high — one in every five individuals — with Europe, North America and parts of Asia reporting high numbers of cases. In comparison, India reports fewer cases, but its prevalence is increasing in young adults given their unhealthy lifestyle and eating habits. Speaking on diagnosis, lifestyle changes and management of GERD, Dr. Rabindranath advised people to quit smoking and alcohol consumption and avoid spicy and fatty foods and late night meals. He also advised against sedentary lifestyle and stress and for practising intake portion control and weight management. 'GERD mimics include heart issues, esophageal disorders, stomach issues, anxiety episodes, and panic attacks; therefore, medical consultation is important,' he added. Sharing tips to manage GERD, he advised 'elevating the head during sleep, keeping a gap of three to four hours between dinner and sleep, sleeping on the left side and wearing loose clothes while exercising'. Focusing on treatment, Dr. Arun spoke on how endoscopy helps to identify the complications and anatomical damage due to reflux episodes. 'Leaving GERD symptoms untreated could lead to esophageal ulcers and strictures making it difficult to swallow food, vomiting of blood and pre-cancerous condition. Minor surgeries, medication and endoscopic procedures help in arresting the progress of the disease,' he said.
Time of India
08-07-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Excessive burping could mean more than a full stomach—here's what your body's trying to tell you
Excessive burping could mean more than a full stomach—here's what your body's trying to tell you Burping or belching, a natural bodily function, releases the audible escape of the buildup of air from our stomach through our mouth. This excessive burping can be an alarming sign of underlying medical conditions or disorders. In order to understand what exactly these medical conditions are, this article explores the information around; what is burping, what causes it, excessive burping- symptoms of medical conditions, difference between occasional burping and frequent burping. Excessive burping is a sign of potential health issues and behavioural disorders. What is burping or belching? Remember getting scolded by your mother at the dinner table for making a sound after a hearty meal? That sound is called Burping. Belching or Burping is a natural process of releasing the air trapped in your stomach through your mouth. In layman's words, when we swallow any kind of food or drink, we end up swallowing air along with it, and this air stretches our stomach until its limit, then a muscle at the lower end of the stomach called the oesophagus relaxes, releasing the trapped air through the mouth. This entire process is called burping or belching, or eructation. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like One plan. Total peace of mind. ICICI Pru Life Insurance Plan Get Quote Undo What causes excessive burping? The very prominent question, 'What causes burping?'- is an answer that is associated with several reasons. These reasons are further categorised into two: 'normal burping' or 'symptom of underlying health condition'. The swallowing of air is the primary cause of excessive burping, which can be done during the following activities: Eat and drink too quickly Talk while eating Drinking Carbonated beverages Wearing ill-fitting dentures Chewing Gum Smoking Excessive burping: Symptom of potential health issues When the burping is frequent and accompanied by other symptoms like abdominal pain, nausea, bloating, weight loss, etc. It is a sign of potential health issues as below: Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) When stomach acid flows back up the oesophagus, it leads to gastroesophageal reflux, also known as acid reflux. According to a study published in the National Library of Medicine , excessive belching is considered not just an isolated syndrome but also an associated symptom in patients with gastroesophageal reflux (GERD). Functional Dyspepsia/Chronic Indigestion Functional Dyspepsia or Indigestion is a pattern of symptoms that occur together. It occurs while you are eating and digesting. The isolated symptom of dyspepsia is frequent belching along with discomfort in the upper belly, nausea, and bloating. Helicobacter Pylori Infection Helicobacter Pylori is a bacteria that causes H. Pylori infection, also known as stomach infection. One of the most common symptoms of this infection is frequent belching or burping. Supragastric Belching According to a study published in the National Library of Medicine , Supragastric Belching is a clearly defined pattern found in patients of aerophagia (frequent belching). Meganblase Syndrome Meganblase syndrome is a functional gas bloat syndrome that includes swallowing of large amounts of air while eating or drinking. This air reaches the stomach and creates a large bubble that escapes through burping. This entire process is quite painful for a human body and its symptoms are somewhat similar to heart attack. How to avoid excessive burping It is to be noted that excessive belching can be avoided; however, if it is a symptom of a medical condition, then professional help is needed. The following are lifestyle tips to get rid of excessive burping: Avoid carbonated drinks such as soda, beer and similar others Avoid foods high in carbohydrates- Eat your food and drink slowly Quit smoking Wear fitted dentures Take a short walk or physical exercise after eating Also read | Control high blood pressure using this common kitchen ingredient, says Harvard doctor
Time of India
01-07-2025
- Health
- Time of India
5 most common digestive issues that are on the rise in the US (and how to tackle them)
Digestive health is one of the integral keys to overall healthy living because it allows the body to efficiently break down food and absorb vital nutrients, which are essential for energy, growth, and cell repair. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now A healthy digestive system also plays a significant role in overall well-being, impacting everything from immunity and mental health to the prevention of various diseases. However, digestive health is increasingly in the spotlight as millions of Americans report bloating, pain, irregularity, and heartburn. Digestive issues don't just cause uncomfortable symptoms – they can disrupt travel, social life, and even professional productivity. 40% of Americans say their daily lives are disrupted by digestive problems, says the American Gastroenterological Association. Understanding why these ailments are on the rise – and how to effectively manage them – is crucial for restoring wellness and enjoying daily life. Let's explore the top five issues and practical solutions to them. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) IBS affects an estimated 25–45 million Americans – about 10–15% of adults, with women disproportionately affected. IBS has been increasingly recognized, partly due to widespread social media awareness. Characterized by abdominal pain, bloating, and irregular bowel habits, this functional disorder is on the rise, fueled by stress, diet, post-COVID gut dysfunction, and social media-driven self-diagnosis. Symptoms include abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits, ranging from constipation to diarrhea. Why it's rising: Heightened stress and anxiety post-pandemic, poor dietary trends and microbiome imbalance, and most importantly – greater self-diagnosis and clinical detection are likely to contribute to the rise of IBS. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now How to tackle it: Dietary shifts: A low‑FODMAP diet under professional guidance is first-line. It systematically eliminates and reintroduces fermentable carbs to identify triggers. Psyllium fiber especially benefits constipated individuals. 76% of patients see improvement after switching to this diet. Increase fiber intake for constipation-predominant IBS, while avoiding insoluble fiber if diarrhea is dominant. Stress management: Techniques like mindfulness, relaxation therapy, hypnotherapy, and CBT calm the gut‑brain axis. Lifestyle essentials: Regular exercise, adequate hydration, adequate sleep, and fiber-rich whole foods support healthy gut motility. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) About 20% of US adults experience GERD, which occurs when acid reflux causes bothersome symptoms at least twice weekly. The consequence? Heartburn and chest discomfort impact sleep, quality of life, and carry long-term risks if untreated. Chronic acid exposure may increase the risk of esophageal damage and even cancer. Why it's rising: Sedentary lifestyles, obesity, and diets rich in fatty, spicy, and processed foods are the contributing factors. How to tackle it: Lifestyle tweaks: Eat smaller meals, drop trigger foods/drinks like caffeine, alcohol, spicy and fatty foods, avoid eating within 2–3 hours before bedtime, and elevate your bed's head by 6–8 inches. Weight control: Addressing obesity reduces reflux episodes substantially. Medication when needed: Use OTC antacids or acid blockers (H2 inhibitors or PPIs). Persistent symptoms should prompt evaluation to prevent complications like esophagitis or Barrett's esophagus. Chronic Constipation Constipation affects an estimated 63 million Americans, though surveys show nearly a third regularly feel constipated – often correlating with low fiber intake, dehydration, inactivity, and IBS. Constipation is on the rise due to low fiber consumption, poor hydration, reduced activity, and comorbid conditions like diabetes and IBS. Only 5–9% meet the recommended fiber intake. Why it's rising: Poor hydration and fiber-poor, processed diets, and sedentary lifestyles are the main reasons. How to tackle it: Hydration: Aim for 2–3 L of water daily—roughly 47% of Americans under-hydrate. High‑fiber diet: Gradually increase soluble fiber (20–35 g/day) via grains, vegetables, legumes, fruits, and psyllium supplements. Routine and movement: Establish regular bathroom habits, avoid straining, and incorporate at least moderate physical activity. Realistic treatments: Use bulk-forming laxatives or osmotic agents if necessary – but consult a doctor if symptoms persist. Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD: Crohn's and Ulcerative Colitis) IBD – comprising Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis – affects about 1.4–1.6 million Americans. These chronic inflammatory conditions cause serious symptoms, like abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, persistent diarrhea (often bloody), fatigue, and weight loss, and the incidence is rising. Why it's rising: Genetic susceptibility combined with Western diets, environmental triggers, and immune dysregulation are the main culprits behind the surge in this disease. How to tackle it: Prompt diagnosis: Persistent diarrhea, rectal bleeding, and pain require colonoscopy and lab testing. Medication regimens: Use anti-inflammatories, corticosteroids for flares, immunomodulators, and biologics to maintain remission. Surgery might be needed for complications. Nutrition strategies: During flares, low-residue diets help; dietitian-guided intake during remission prevents malnutrition. Ongoing monitoring: Regular check-ups reduce risks like stricture formation and colorectal cancer. Celiac Disease Around 1–2 million Americans are diagnosed with celiac disease, a serious autoimmune reaction to gluten. Many cases remain undiagnosed, with about 2.5 million people unknowingly affected and undiagnosed. It damages the small intestine lining, impairs nutrient absorption, and leads to symptoms like diarrhea, bloating, anemia, and fatigue. Why it's rising: Improved testing and awareness, and possibly early-life dietary changes, might be the possible reasons behind the surge. How to tackle it: Accurate diagnosis: Requires blood tests for tTGA antibodies and a confirmatory duodenal biopsy. Strict gluten-free diet: Eliminating wheat, barley, and rye is essential – and working with a dietitian reduces the risk of nutritional deficiencies. Nutrient replacement: Monitor iron, folate, calcium, vitamin D, and consider supplements or fortified gluten-free grains. Lifelong compliance: Stay vigilant to avoid hidden gluten in cross-contaminated products. Digestive issues – IBS, GERD, chronic constipation, IBD, and celiac disease – are escalating in prevalence, fueled by modern lifestyles, stress, dietary patterns, and improved diagnosis, significantly impacting daily living. But the narrative isn't hopeless. Through scientifically backed dietary modifications, lifestyle adjustments, stress management, and medical care, you can take control. Early screening, persistent symptom tracking, and professional guidance help restore digestive comfort and well-being. Tackling couple quarantine issues effectively
