Acidity

Acidity or heart burn is one of the most common symptoms seen in about 5% of the Indian population. It is characterised by a burning sensation in the chest after meals. It may be accompanied by sour eructations or food coming back into the mouth. Sometimes the distress is so severe that this condition is mistaken for a heart attack.

Causes of Acidity

Acidity is caused by reflux of the food and acid from the stomachtothe food pipe. The root cause is inappropriate relaxation of the valve between the food pipe and the stomach.

Care And Guidance

This is a common disease but can lead to fatal complications. So early diagnosis and treatment are desirable. However, The general guidelines are :

• Avoid fried and fatty foods.
• Consume less water with meals. 
• Do not sleep / lie down / bend / stoop immediately after taking meals. Go for a walk.
• Avoid smoking.
• Avoid citrus fruits, excess of tea and coffee.

Diagnosis

A comprehensive diagnosis is the first step towards the right treatment. The complications because of reflux of acid can be easily diagnosed by a simple test known as ENDOSCOPY In this process a small 9mm wide camera mounted over a tube goes into the food pipe and the stomach, which makes the whole area visible on a T.V. Monitor.