InsightsFrenzy.com | Discover Insightful Content

Acid reflux during pregnancy

Acid reflux during pregnancy: Symptoms and lifestyle changes to avoid them

Acid reflux is a condition wherein one experiences pain in the lower chest area, which is commonly referred to as heartburn. When the acids of the stomach travel back to the esophagus, this condition arises. During pregnancy, hormonal changes may cause the LES or lower esophageal sphincter to not function properly; this is the valve to carry food to the stomach.

Also, towards the second and third trimester, the fetus grows and puts more pressure on the stomach, thereby causing food to re-enter the esophagus from the stomach.

Signs and symptoms

Some of the common signs and symptoms of acid reflux that one may experience during pregnancy are:

A burning sensation in the chest near the area behind the breastbone just after eating
Chest pain experienced because of bending over, lying down, and eating
Burning sensation in the throat or the aftertaste of a sour or salt-tasting fluid towards the back of the throat
Belching
Prolonged coughing
Hoarseness in the throat
Symptoms similar to asthma

It must be noted that the occasional heartburn is usual and the pain may cease in some time. However, if the pain is persistent, this might be a cause of worry. A possible reason may be gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD, which is the next stage of acid reflux, or it may even be gastritis. Almost half of the women complain about heartburn during pregnancy. However, if it becomes more frequent, that is when a doctor should definitely be consulted for treatment.

Suggested lifestyle changes

There are several lifestyle changes that may be adopted in order to avoid heartburn or acid reflux, and make the pregnancy very safe for the mother as well as the baby. Here are some of the steps one can consider taking:

Eat smaller portions and try to compensate with more frequent meals
Drink as much water as possible between meals
Eat slowly and chew your food properly to put less pressure on the stomach to digest
Do not eat at least for a few hours before hitting the bed
Avoid foods that act as a trigger for the heartburn such as chocolate, spicy foods, citrus foods, as well as carbonated beverages
Do not lean immediately after meals and go for a walk if possible
Wear clothes that fit comfortably and are not very tight on the body
Try not to gain or lose a lot of weight suddenly
Elevate your upper body with pillows when you sleep
Try to sleep on the left side if possible as sleeping on the right side increases the chances of heartburn as the esophagus tends to be lower than the stomach
Eat yogurt or drink milk frequently as it will help overcome the symptoms of acid reflux

Apart from these lifestyle changes, there are several relaxation techniques such as yoga and guided imagery that may help getting respite from acid reflux.

Disclaimer:

The content provided on our blog site traverses numerous categories, offering readers valuable and practical information. Readers can use the editorial team’s research and data to gain more insights into their topics of interest. However, they are requested not to treat the articles as conclusive. The website team cannot be held responsible for differences in data or inaccuracies found across other platforms. Please also note that the site might also miss out on various schemes and offers available that the readers may find more beneficial than the ones we cover.

Popular Articles

7 Foods To Avoid Heartburn In Preganant Women

Pregnancy brings along with it many changes, both inside and outside a woman’s body. The food cravings that a pregnant woman experiences during pregnancy are spurred by hormones, as they play a major role in developing the baby inside the mother and in keeping the mother healthy.

Food To Eat And Avoid To Manage Acid Reflux

Food to eat and avoid to manage acid reflux Acid reflux is a condition characterized by a burning pain (heartburn) felt in the lower chest. If you suffer from this condition and are on a lookout for useful information related to acid reflux, continue reading, as this article intends to raise awareness about acid reflux, its causes, acid reflux – diet, and its management.

The Best Diet for Acid Reflux to Following Immediately

Do you suffer from heartburn frequently? It could be a case of Acid Reflux Disease, also known as GERD, i.i., Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease. Normally, during the process of digestion, there is a sphincter at the mouth of the stomach, that closes once you’ve finished eating.

The Best Foods for Acid Reflux to Following Immediately

Symptoms of Heartburn and How to Treat It

It begins as a burning pain in your chest. Slowly, it creeps upwards to the neck. Often, there is a terrible sensation of food you just ate coming back to your mouth.

7 Simple Home Remedies to Treat Heart Burn

Do you get the familiar burning sensation in your chest after a big hearty meal? Is it often accompanied by discomfort and pain? Do you feel acid rising in your throat and experience a sour taste in your mouth?