Early medication may avoid acidity complications

Almost every one suffers from acidity at some point in their lives. However, when these episodes of acidity begin to occur with regular frequency and begin interfering with one’s lifestyle, it is imperative to consult a specialist before the underlying disease causes irreversible damage.

According to gastroenterologists practising in Telangana and Andhra Pradesh, nearly 27 per cent of patients they treat for various digestive disorders complain of acidity. Yet, paradoxically, most patients experiment with self-medication through various remedies including changes in diet and consumption of over-the-counter medicines for nearly 3months before seeking appropriate medical help.

Dr B Ravi Shankar, Chief of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Sunshine Hospital says ‘Thepatient behaviourespecially in Telangana and Andhra Pradesh is that they typically first try out antacids. However, when they discover that these provide only momentary relief and the symptoms come back within no time, they finally resort to seeking a medical specialist’s help”.

“The non-treatment of digestive problem for a long time can, in very rare cases, lead to a potential risk of cancer in nearly 2 per cent of patients suffering from acidity” Says Dr Sandeep Lakhatakia, ConsultantGastroenterologist, Asian Institute of Gastroenterology Exercise is key to help keep excess weight at bay According to specialist doctors, aerobic and cardio exercises are the most beneficial in keeping weight down, and as a result, in thwarting acidity.

Walking and swimming are also ideal exercises. Care should be taken to avoid exercises that place any strain on the abdomen. Weight training should therefore be done in moderation. Practices such as kunjal kriya in which a person needs to drink a large quantity of salty water and forcefully expel it are not a good idea since they place a strain on the already weak lower oesophageal sphincter. Similarly, low impact yoga postures are good for health. Gastroenterologists advise that eating smaller, lighter, more frequent meals is the best way to help keep acidity at bay.

Acidity treatment trend in India

Over last 4 years, increase in acidity is reflecting in the growth recorded by new prescriptions for Antipeptic Ulcerants (class of medicines prescribed to treat acidity and heartburn) written by doctors. According to IMS Health estimates, Indian doctors wrote over 490 million Antipeptic Ulcerants prescriptions in 2016 while AIOCD peg 11 per cent growth in sale of Antipeptic Ulcerant medicines in India during same calendar year. What's alarming is that the jump in sales of these class of medicines over last 4 years indicating escalation of acidity problems in India.