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RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das was admitted to a hospital in Chennai after experiencing severe acidity. According to an RBI spokesperson, “He is now doing fine and will be discharged in the next 2-3 hours.” The spokesperson assured that there is no cause for concern.
What is Acid Reflux?
Acid reflux occurs when stomach acid flows backward into the esophagus and throat. This backward movement can cause irritation and inflammation in the esophageal lining, leading to discomfort. Common symptoms include indigestion, heartburn, chest pain, nausea, and a burning sensation in the stomach or throat after eating.
Also Read: RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das Admitted to Hospital
Is Acid Reflux Dangerous?
Though occasional acid reflux episodes are usually harmless, frequent acid reflux, or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), can cause serious complications if untreated.
Potential complications include:
- Esophageal Ulcers
Chronic exposure to stomach acid can erode the esophageal lining, leading to painful ulcers. Symptoms include chest pain, heartburn, nausea, and pain during swallowing. Untreated ulcers may result in esophageal perforation or bleeding.
- Esophageal Stricture
GERD-related inflammation can lead to scarring, causing the esophagus to narrow (a condition known as esophageal stricture). This makes swallowing difficult and may lead to choking or breathlessness.
- Aspiration Pneumonia
Repeated inhalation of stomach acid into the lungs can cause aspiration pneumonia, a severe lung infection. Symptoms include chest pain, fever, coughing, breathlessness, wheezing, and fatigue. If left untreated, it can be life-threatening.
- Esophageal Cancer
GERD increases the risk of adenocarcinoma, a type of esophageal cancer affecting the lower esophagus. Symptoms include difficulty swallowing, severe heartburn, chest pain, weight loss, and cough. Early detection is rare, as symptoms usually appear in advanced stages.
Preventing Acid Reflux
Doctors recommend the following measures to reduce acid reflux and prevent complications:
- Avoid Trigger Foods: Limit fried, greasy, spicy, or fatty foods.
- Adopt Healthy Eating Habits: Avoid overeating or lying down immediately after meals. Allow time for digestion.
- Manage Weight: Excess weight, especially around the abdomen, can push the stomach upward, increasing acid reflux risks.
- Reduce Alcohol and Caffeine: Excessive intake of both can aggravate acid reflux.
- Quit Smoking: Smoking impairs the esophageal sphincter’s ability to close, allowing acid to rise.
- Wear Loose Clothing: Tight-fitting clothes can increase abdominal pressure, pushing stomach contents upward.
Making these lifestyle changes can help control acid reflux and reduce the risk of severe complications.
