Latest news with #acidreflux
Health Line
16-07-2025
- Health
- Health Line
Ozempic Heartburn
Some people have reported on social media that they experience heartburn or acid reflux during Ozempic treatment. You can try some things to help prevent or lessen heartburn during Ozempic treatment. Is heartburn typical during Ozempic treatment? Ozempic's clinical studies didn't report heartburn. But the prescribing information notes the following mild side effects that often link to heartburn. gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) (acid reflux): This can cause a burning feeling in your chest, neck, or throat. It can also cause a bitter or sour taste in the back of your mouth and regurgitation of food or liquid into your mouth. (Regurgitation involves 'bringing up' partially digested food or liquid.) burping or belching dyspepsia (indigestion): This side effect can cause burning or discomfort in your upper abdomen and other symptoms. gastritis (inflammation or irritation of your stomach lining): This side effect causes nausea, vomiting, and fullness in your upper abdomen. gas The studies reported these side effects with the use of 5-milligram (mg) and 1-mg doses of Ozempic. Except for gas, people experienced these side effects more commonly with the 5-mg dose. Since the drug became available, some people have reported having heartburn during Ozempic treatment. Although it can be mild, some people taking the drug reported intense heartburn. Some also reported that it affected their sleep and some everyday activities. How do you stop heartburn during Ozempic treatment? Some people find home remedies or practices helpful in stopping heartburn during Ozempic treatment. These include: drinking more water drinking a glass of water mixed with 1 teaspoon of apple cider vinegar avoiding lying down until the heartburn passes using a wedge pillow or elevating the head of your bed Numerous medications are also available over the counter or by prescription for heartburn. Some of these medications help prevent heartburn or acid reflux, and others treat it once it starts. These medications include: Antacids: Antacids neutralize your stomach acid, which may reduce or treat heartburn. Some brand-name antacid medications are: Alka-Seltzer Mylanta Pepto-Bismol Rolaids Tums Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs): PPIs work to reduce the amount of acid your stomach produces. Some examples are: esomeprazole (Nexium) pantoprazole (Protonix) omeprazole (Prilosec) Histamine-2 (H2) blockers: H2 blockers reduce the acid your stomach produces. Some H2 blockers are: nizatidine (Axid) famotidine (Pepcid, Pepcid AC) cimetidine (Tagamet, Tagamet HB) Your doctor may recommend a particular medication for your heartburn and acid reflux. They'll also recommend the best time to take it. How do you prevent heartburn during Ozempic treatment? You can do some things to help prevent or lessen heartburn during Ozempic treatment. These include: eating smaller meals eating slower avoiding eating meals and snacks 3 to 4 hours before bedtime avoiding lying down soon after meals considering stopping smoking, if you smoke limiting the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen and aspirin considering avoiding or limiting your intake of alcohol reducing stress avoiding or limiting certain foods Foods to avoid or limit Certain foods can contribute to the amount of acid your stomach produces, which may cause heartburn. These foods are: certain beverages, such as carbonated drinks, tea, and coffee fatty, greasy, or fried foods fast foods spicy foods certain fruits and vegetables high in acid, such as tomatoes, pineapples, and oranges Avoiding or limiting these foods may help prevent or reduce the heartburn you might experience during Ozempic treatment.
Medscape
12-07-2025
- Health
- Medscape
Fast Five Quiz: Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease Overview
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) management has recently evolved to incorporate optimized pharmacologic strategies, including timing and selection of acid-suppressive agents and use of diagnostic tools. Many cases can be treated effectively with lifestyle modifications and medications. However, patients who do not respond to initial treatment, or those with atypical symptoms or potential complications, might require more nuanced evaluation or advanced therapeutic strategies. How much do you know about the diagnosis, symptoms, and management of GERD? Test your knowledge with this quick quiz. In patients with GERD symptoms accompanied by alarm signs (eg, dysphagia, unintended weight loss, anemia, gastrointestinal bleeding), endoscopy is the recommended initial diagnostic tool. This procedure allows direct visualization of the esophageal lining, helping to identify conditions such as erosive esophagitis or Barrett esophagus. These findings can confirm or support a GERD diagnosis and help guide further management. Although a barium swallow might occasionally detect reflux, it lacks the accuracy and consistency required to serve as a standalone diagnostic method for GERD. Salivary pepsin testing has not demonstrated enough reliability in distinguishing patients with reflux-related symptoms from those without, particularly in cases involving extraesophageal manifestations. As a result, it is not recommended for routine clinical use. High-resolution manometry is primarily used to evaluate esophageal motility disorders rather than to diagnose GERD itself and does not assess mucosal integrity or confirm acid reflux as the source of symptoms. Learn more about endoscopy. When a patient continues to experience reflux symptoms despite PPI therapy, ambulatory wireless pH monitoring is a valuable diagnostic tool to assess whether abnormal acid exposure persists. This test provides a multi-day analysis of esophageal acid levels. It captures variations that might not appear during shorter monitoring periods, making it useful for confirming the presence of GERD in refractory cases and for guiding subsequent treatment decisions. Abdominal ultrasound is helpful for visualizing organs such as the liver or gallbladder but cannot detect acid in the esophagus. CT of the abdomen is effective for assessing abdominal structures but does not provide information on acid reflux patterns. Blood tests for digestive enzymes might aid in evaluating pancreatic function but are not relevant for assessing esophageal acid exposure. Learn more about PPIs. When GERD causes symptoms beyond the digestive tract, such as a persistent cough, ongoing throat irritation, dental erosions, or asthma, it might indicate a more severe or complicated form of the disease that requires intensified treatment (possibly including surgery). These respiratory or voice-related issues can arise from stomach acid reaching areas such as the larynx or airways, causing inflammation or damage. Because these symptoms are harder to control with standard medications, a more aggressive therapeutic approach is often needed. Intermittent dyspepsia usually reflects mild upper abdominal discomfort and is often managed with lifestyle changes or medications. Chest pain must first be evaluated to rule out cardiac causes and does not, by itself, indicate severe disease needing surgical intervention. Excessive flatulence is not a classic feature of GERD and is usually related to dietary or gastrointestinal motility factors rather than acid reflux. Learn more about chronic cough. For patients experiencing typical GERD symptoms, such as heartburn and acid regurgitation, without alarm features such as weight loss or dysphagia, once-daily dosing of a PPI before a meal is the recommended initial approach. This timing maximizes the medication's effect by ensuring it is active when the stomach begins producing acid in response to food. Taking a PPI after eating is less effective because the drug must be present in the bloodstream before the stomach's acid-producing pumps are stimulated by food. Twice-daily dosing might be considered for patients with refractory symptoms or complications but is not recommended as first-line therapy. Three times daily is excessive for standard GERD management and is not supported by current guidelines for uncomplicated cases. Learn more about GERD management. For patients who continue to experience nighttime reflux symptoms despite taking PPIs, adding a histamine-2 (H2) receptor antagonist at bedtime can provide additional symptom relief. Acid production tends to increase at night due to natural histamine release, and H2 blockers can help suppress this nocturnal acid surge. Although their effectiveness might diminish over time due to tolerance, short-term use can still significantly reduce nighttime acid exposure. A morning dose of antacid does not effectively address nighttime acid production and has a short duration of action. Consuming a light dinner might offer symptom relief but is not a reliable solution for persistent nocturnal symptoms. Sleeping in an upright position is generally unnecessary; instead, elevating the head of the bed is a more practical and effective strategy to prevent nighttime reflux. Learn more about H2 receptor antagonists.
Yahoo
11-07-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
The #1 Food to Limit to Reduce Your Risk of Acid Reflux, According to Experts
Reviewed by Dietitian Kelly Plowe, M.S., RDDietitians agree that fried foods are the No. 1 food to limit to avoid acid reflux. Instead, aim to eat more lean proteins, high-fiber grains, legumes and cooked vegetables. Eating smaller meals, skipping carbonated drinks and getting regular exercise can also reflux is when the contents in your stomach (like partially digested food and acids) reverse direction and make their way back up your esophagus and into your throat. This can lead to abdominal pain, burping, a sour taste, nausea and chest pain. Over time, frequent reflux can erode the esophagus, impacting your quality of life. While triggers vary from person to person, there's one common culprit that dietitians agree can exacerbate symptoms: fried foods. Here's what you need to know about why fried foods top the list of reflux triggers and the swaps that can help you feel better. There are many strategies for managing acid reflux, and making changes to your diet is usually the best place to start. 'Fried foods are high in fat, which can relax the lower esophageal sphincter and delay stomach emptying, two key contributors to acid reflux,' says Samantha DeVito, M.S., RD, CDN. This combination makes it easier for stomach acid to creep back up into the esophagus, leading to that familiar burning sensation. 'Reducing high-fat meals has been shown to improve reflux symptoms, so avoiding fried foods can help,' DeVito adds. Registered dietitian Lisa Andrews, RD, LD, agrees. 'Fried foods may increase stomach acid production, a trigger for acid reflux.' When food remains in the stomach for an extended period, like after consuming a high-fat meal, the body may produce more stomach acid to help with digestion, which can cause heartburn. Andrews notes that fried foods also tend to be higher in calories, which can contribute to weight gain over time, a known risk factor for reflux. Studies show that excess weight, especially around the abdomen, can increase pressure on the stomach and weaken the lower esophageal sphincter, increasing the risk of developing GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease or chronic acid reflux). For those seeking relief from acid reflux, cutting back on fried foods is a helpful first step. Some foods are well-known for causing reflux, but individual triggers can vary, says Michael Schopis, M.D., a gastroenterologist with Manhattan Gastroenterology. His advice: Track your eating habits to pinpoint reflux triggers and cut back on those specific foods. Here are some foods that are generally beneficial for individuals who suffer from reflux. Instead of fried foods, opt for those that are lower in fat, such as grilled chicken and baked fish. These are less likely to trigger reflux compared to other options that are high in saturated fat. 'Grilled chicken, fish or plant-based proteins like lentils are lower in fat and easier on the digestive system,' says DeVito. Skinless chicken breasts, in particular, are an excellent source of lean protein. 'Baked, broiled or grilled lean meats are better than high-fat or fried foods because they are easier to digest and may also support a healthy weight,' explains Andrews. You can also try air-frying proteins with little to no oil. This may or may not trigger reflux symptoms depending on the food. Instead of refined grains or foods high in added sugar, which may worsen reflux, consider choosing fiber-rich whole grains, such as oatmeal, brown rice, quinoa, whole-wheat pasta and whole-grain bread. Fiber supports healthy digestion and may help with acid reflux. High-fiber foods are generally neutral in acidity and can help absorb excess stomach acid, which may help reduce symptoms. A diet high in fiber, which includes whole grains and other complex carbohydrates, has been shown to improve lower esophageal sphincter pressure, a factor that can contribute to GERD. Legumes (beans, lentils and chickpeas) are protein-rich meat alternatives that are low in fat. 'These foods are less likely to trigger reflux and still provide satisfying, nutrient-rich meals,' DeVito says. Packed with iron and fiber, legumes help keep you full and satisfied while also helping to alleviate reflux. While they are a nutritious addition to a reflux-friendly diet, be mindful of how they are prepared. Recipes that call for heavy spices and cream, or tomato-based sauces, could be irritating. Instead, look for dishes that use milder seasonings and herbs. Adding more vegetables to your day can help prevent those uncomfortable reflux symptoms you're looking to avoid. Cooking vegetables makes them easier to digest and potentially decreases their acidity, especially when compared to raw vegetables. Cooking also helps soften the fibers in vegetables, making them less likely to cause gas and bloating, which can worsen acid reflux. While veggies are a good choice, how they're prepared makes a difference. Dishes loaded with butter, cheese or spicy sauces may aggravate reflux symptoms. Instead, opt for steamed, roasted or sautéed vegetables seasoned with olive oil and mild herbs like basil or parsley. Eat smaller, more frequent meals. Eating small portions four to six times per day can be beneficial for individuals with GERD. This will prevent you from becoming too hungry or overly full, both of which can cause heartburn. Avoid lying down for two to three hours after eating. Give your body time to digest your food so it doesn't travel back up into the esophagus. 'Consider elevating the head of your bed to prevent nighttime symptoms,' says DeVito. Skip carbonated beverages and soda. 'These may promote the 'bubbling up' of acid in the esophagus,' says Andrews. Instead, stay hydrated with water to support proper digestion and reduce constipation. Stay physically active. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week to support digestion and promote a healthy body weight, as research suggests that this may reduce the risk of developing GERD by 72%. It's totally normal to experience acid reflux (aka heartburn) from time to time. While occasional heartburn is harmless, chronic reflux can lead to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). If your symptoms are more frequent, avoiding fried foods—among other things—can reduce your risk of acid reflux. Instead, opt for leaner proteins that are baked or grilled, and incorporate whole, nutrient-dense foods that are rich in fiber. Other strategies that may be helpful include eating smaller, more frequent meals, sitting upright for two to three hours after eating, and exercising consistently. Read the original article on EATINGWELL
The Independent
10-07-2025
- Health
- The Independent
Simple but vital new cancer test to be trialled in pharmacies
Hundreds of people experiencing persistent heartburn or acid reflux will soon be offered a ' sponge on a string ' test in high-street pharmacies. NHS England is piloting a new way of preventing oesophageal cancer by identifying individuals with a condition called Barrett's oesophagus, which occurs when stomach acid damages the lining of the oesophagus or food pipe. Some cells may grow abnormally and then develop into oesophageal cancer. From early next year, around 1,500 people in London and the East Midlands will participate in these new "heartburn health checks" to test for Barrett's oesophagus. During the test, the patient swallows a small capsule attached to a string. The capsule dissolves in the stomach and leaves a small sponge about the size of a 1p coin. The sponge is then pulled out via the string by NHS staff after a few minutes, during which time it collects cells from the oesophageal lining for analysis in the lab. This test is already used in hospitals and community diagnostic centres to help reduce the need for invasive endoscopies in Barrett's patients. During the pilot, pharmacists will work to spot patients who are regularly using over-the-counter medicines to ease their heartburn but who have not sought help from their GP. The pilot will run for two years before potentially being rolled out more widely. Professor Peter Johnson, NHS national cancer director, said the 'new pilot brings a convenient test to where people shop, making it easier than ever for patients to check signs and symptoms that might be worrying them'. 'For the majority of people with persistent reflux, these quick and easy heartburn health checks will provide peace of mind that you aren't at increased risk of cancer, and for those who do find out they have Barrett's oesophagus, regular follow-up checks will be put in place so any further cell changes can be spotted early.' If pre-cancerous cells are found, treatment can be offered to remove the cells through endoscopy or a procedure known as radiofrequency ablation. Of almost 10,000 patients diagnosed with oesophageal cancer in the UK each year, 80 per cent are diagnosed at a late stage. Only one in five people survive a year, meaning early diagnosis is crucial. Eddie, aged 77 from Suffolk, says the test may have saved his life after years of persistent heartburn. He said: 'It used to wake me up at night, but I always thought it was just one of those things. 'To think that something as simple as swallowing a capsule could uncover a hidden risk is truly remarkable. 'The test was quick, straightforward, and completely changed how I think about my health. 'Knowing I have Barrett's oesophagus meant I was prioritised, my condition was monitored, and as a result, my dysplasia (cell changes) was caught early. Main symptoms of oesophageal cancer NHS 'I am now able to get targeted treatment to stop my condition progressing to cancer, rather than finding out when it's too late. 'This never would have been caught if it wasn't for capsule sponge testing. This test gave me peace of mind and access to early treatment and could mean the difference between life and death for so many others.' The NHS has partnered with Boots and diagnostics company Cyted Health for the pilot, alongside Heartburn Cancer UK. Public health minister Ashley Dalton said: 'Last week, as part of our 10-year health plan, we promised a neighbourhood health service – convenient care nearer to where people live. 'Today's announcement is a fantastic example of the life-saving potential of healthcare on your high street. 'Being able to spot the warning signs using a 10-minute test in a local pharmacy – before cancer has even taken hold – will be a game-changer. 'As part of our Plan for Change to tackle the biggest killers, this government is committed to back innovation and make our NHS fit for the future to drive up this country's cancer survival rates.'
Daily Mail
29-06-2025
- Health
- Daily Mail
Gut doctor warns of 'ticking timebomb' cancer risk that millions are walking around with...and the simple remedy that can prevent it
A gut health doctor has revealed a surprising cause of a deadly cancer on the rise in Britain, and millions may be at risk without realising. Gastroenterologist Dr Wendi LeBrett warned that many people are unaware acid reflux—when juices from the stomach travel back towards the throat—was a potential risk factor for oesophageal cancer. Oesophageal cancer forms in oesophagus the tube that carries food and drink to the stomach and is incredibly deadly, with 9 out 10 patients dead within 10 years of being diagnosed, usually because of its subtle symptoms. Acid reflux is a risk factor for the disease as the acidic liquid damages the sensitive tissue in the tube can lead to changes in cells that can become cancer. Dr LeBrett said acid reflux—which causes problems like heartburn— can be a hidden condition with up to a third of sufferers not suffering 'typical symptoms'. In an TikTok clip watched over 70,000 times, she said: 'About 60 to 70 per cent of people with acid reflux have the typical symptom of heartburn—the burning sensation in your chest often after eating'. 'That means around one in three do not have typical symptoms or know they have the condition.' As such Dr LeBrett, from Idaho in the US, said people need to keep track of the hidden signs of acid reflux. 'Watch out for a chronic cough, particularly at night when acid reflux is worse,' she said. 'Breathing problems can also be a symptom as the acid irritates the airways and can exacerbate conditions like asthma. She added: 'Problems swallowing is also an atypical symptom.' The medic also explained that dentists may spot signs of acid damage to your teeth. Signs include yellowing of teeth as well as cracks and increased sensitivity. She urged anyone frequently experiencing these symptoms to seek help from a medical professional. One commenter on the video said: 'I was diagnosed with oesophageal cancer last year. I'm 36. I've had acid reflux most of my life but never thought anything of it. I had all those symptoms you mention but was gaslit and dismissed by my doctors.' While another viewer said that: 'not me having a chronic cough because of my acid, getting it checked next Monday.' Doctors may be able to advise on lifestyle changes or prescribe medication and investigations to combat the problem. Untreated acid reflux can lead to a condition called Barrett's oesophagus. This is where cells in the tube have started to change abnormally and are at higher risk of becoming cancerous. Cancer charity Cancer Research UK (CRUK) estimates between 3 and 13 per cent of Barrett's oesophagus will go on to develop oesophageal cancer. This translate to someone with the condition having an 11-times greater risk of being diagnosed with oesophageal cancer than someone without Barrett's oesophagus. Overall, CRUK estimates about three in five of the near 9,500 cases of oesophageal cancer diagnosed in Britain each year are preventable. Smoking is considered one of the biggest risk factors for the disease with about one in three cases of the cancer in Britain caused by the habit. In addition to heartburn and indigestion a sore throat, especially when swallowing, is another common sign of the disease. Patients are urged to get it checked out by a doctor if they notice it getting worse or remaining for a long period of time. Data also suggests that oesophageal is on the rise in Britain with cases having increased 3 per cent overall since the 90s and 10 per cent in men specifically. Earlier this year figures showed Britain has one of the highest rates of the disease in Europe with medics warning cases, like other cancers, are on the rise among young adults. The cancer kills 22 patients per day in the UK, one of the highest rates in Europe. Data show the UK has 14.2 new cases of oesophageal cancer per 100,000 people per year. This is quadruple Italy's 3.5 cases per 100,000 people per year, triple Spain's 4.4 and double or almost double France's and Germany rate of 7 and 7.7. Only the Netherlands narrowly beats Britain in Western Europe, sneaking ahead at 14.9 cases. Action Against Heartburn, the campaign group that analysed the data called for greater awareness of oesophageal cancer in Britain.
