Are you constantly battling heartburn and acidity? It might be more than just a minor inconvenience. A recent warning from Dr. Anshuman Kaushal, a renowned Surgical Gastroenterologist at Apollo Hospital, highlights a serious issue that many Indians might be overlooking. He emphasizes that what people commonly refer to as 'normal acidity' could be an early sign of a progressive disease known as Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD). This condition can lead to severe complications if left untreated.
Dr. Kaushal, known for his candid approach on social media as @theangry_doc, has gone viral with his video titled 'If Your Acidity Comes Back Every Day… It’s Not Acidity. It’s a Disease. GERD: The Slow Fire That Burns You From the Inside.' In this video, he sheds light on the dangers of GERD, a condition where stomach acid frequently rises and damages the esophagus over time.
The doctor clarifies that chronic heartburn is not a normal part of life. He explains that symptoms like gas, burning, and regurgitation are not mere discomfort but indicators of GERD. This disease occurs when the Lower Esophageal Sphincter (LES) weakens, allowing stomach acid to flow upwards and damage the esophagus. Obesity, oily food, late-night meals, caffeine, nicotine, alcohol, stress, and a weak LES are common triggers.
GERD, if untreated, can lead to severe complications such as ulcers, chronic coughing, asthma-like symptoms, and Barrett's esophagus, a condition closely linked to cancer. Dr. Kaushal emphasizes the importance of recognizing red-flag symptoms like chest burning, bitter taste in the mouth, night-time coughing, frequent throat clearing, voice changes, and burping after meals. He stresses that daily acidity is not a lifestyle issue but a medical condition requiring attention.
Diagnosis involves upper GI endoscopy, pH metric acid study, and pressure study of the esophagus, as well as an ultrasound of the stomach. Treatment options range from lifestyle changes like avoiding late-night dinners, raising the head during sleep, quitting smoking, and reducing caffeine and oily meals. For severe or long-term cases, surgical intervention such as laparoscopic or robotic fundoplication may be necessary to tighten the valve and prevent acid reflux.
Dr. Kaushal's message is a call to action, urging people to take persistent acidity seriously. He warns that ignoring it can lead to repeated internal injuries, which can have serious health implications. With his extensive experience in minimal access and surgical gastroenterology, Dr. Kaushal emphasizes the need for awareness and timely intervention to prevent irreversible damage from GERD.
