Acid Reflux Can Trigger Shortness of Breath

Dr. ADITYA DIAS PRADANA, Sp.PD

Internal Medicine Specialist at Graha Sehat Hospital

Gastric acid is a natural substance produced by the stomach. This substance helps digest food and kills germs that enter the body. However, excessive stomach acid can actually cause disease.

Dr. Aditya Dias Pradana, Sp.PD, an internal medicine specialist at Graha Sehat Hospital, explained that acid reflux is a condition where stomach acid rises into the esophagus. It can also cause irritation of the stomach itself, known as gastritis or dyspepsia.

This condition can occur due to several common triggers. These include irregular eating patterns or eating too much at once, as well as excessive consumption of spicy, acidic, or fatty foods.

Acid reflux can also be caused by a person's habit of lying down immediately after eating, stress and lack of sleep, smoking, excessive coffee and caffeinated beverage consumption, and obesity.

"There's also another factor, namely weakness of the valve muscle between the esophagus and stomach (LES), which makes it easier for stomach acid to rise," he said.

Acid reflux has negative effects on the body. One of these is shortness of breath. This is a fairly common phenomenon. This condition can occur for two reasons.

First, stomach acid rising into the esophagus can stimulate nerves located near the airways, triggering airway narrowing.

Second, in more severe cases, stomach acid can even be inhaled into the respiratory tract, causing respiratory irritation.

When shortness of breath occurs, the sufferer should immediately sit upright. Do not lie down, as this can worsen acid reflux. Then, loosen clothing and calm your breathing.

If shortness of breath is accompanied by symptoms such as severe chest pain, cold sweats, or shortness of breath that doesn't improve within a few minutes, seek immediate medical attention. This is to ensure the shortness of breath isn't caused by a more serious heart or lung problem.

"If you're experiencing shortness of breath, don't self-diagnose it as acid reflux. Instead, consult a doctor first," he explained.

Also Causes Disturbance

Other Health

Besides causing shortness of breath, stomach acid can also cause other health problems, such as heartburn , heartburn, nausea , and vomiting. It can also cause persistent coughing, hoarseness due to vocal cord irritation, and sleep disturbances.

Other health problems include tooth erosion due to repeated acid exposure, and inflammation and ulcers in the stomach or esophageal lining if left untreated for a long time.

Medical treatment isn't the only option. Acid reflux can also be prevented with several preventive measures, such as eating regularly and in adequate portions (not excessively).

Then, avoid consuming excessively spicy, acidic, or fatty foods. Don't lie down or sleep immediately after eating. Instead, allow at least 2-3 hours for food to be eaten. Manage stress well. Avoid smoking and limit caffeine and alcohol intake. Maintain a healthy weight and get enough rest and sleep.

"Gastro acid disease can be prevented by maintaining a good diet and lifestyle ," he explained.

When asked whether acid reflux disease can be cured, Dr. Aditya explained that it can be treated by improving lifestyle and diet. However, medication alone without a healthy lifestyle is usually ineffective in the long term.

"In addition to lifestyle changes, the doctor will prescribe medication, such as stomach acid suppressants and gastric protectors, depending on the severity and duration of treatment, which will be evaluated periodically by the doctor," he concluded. ( ar/fun )

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