Acidity — that burning sensation in your chest or the bitter taste rising from your stomach — might seem like a minor inconvenience. But in reality, it’s a signal from your body that something is off.
In India, where our love for spicy food, irregular eating habits, and stressful lifestyles is common, acidity is practically a household term. Most people instinctively reach for over-the-counter antacids like ENO, Digene, or Gelusil, thinking these offer a quick fix.
But here’s what most don’t realize: relying on instant relief without understanding the root cause can lead to long-term digestive issues, including GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease).
This blog will cover:
- What causes acidity
- How Antacids and similar products work
- When acidity becomes dangerous
- Why consulting a specialist at LGI Hospital in Nagpur could save you from chronic gut problems
What Exactly Is Acidity?
It occurs when stomach acid flows back into the food pipe (esophagus), irritating its lining.
Common symptoms include:
- Burning sensation in the chest (heartburn)
- Bloating
- Sour or bitter taste in the mouth
- Nausea
- Burping or gas
In most Indian households, acidity is brushed off as a “common problem” — especially after a heavy meal. But when it becomes frequent, it could be an early sign of a deeper gastrointestinal issue.
What Causes Frequent Acidity?
Several triggers can make acidity worse, including:
- Skipping meals or eating at irregular times
- Spicy, oily, and fried food (very common in Indian cuisine)
- Stress and lack of sleep
- Smoking and alcohol
- Consuming tea, coffee, or carbonated drinks excessively
- Eating right before sleeping
- Sedentary lifestyle or lack of exercise
These habits disturb your digestion and increase acid production, eventually leading to frequent reflux episodes.
How Antacids Work
ENO, Digene, Gelusil, and other common antacids claim to provide relief within seconds — and often, they do.
Here’s how:
- These antacids contain alkaline substances like sodium bicarbonate, magnesium hydroxide, or aluminum hydroxide
- They neutralize the stomach acid temporarily
- This reduces acidity symptoms and soothes the burning sensation
But here’s the catch: they don’t address the root cause. These products are designed for occasional relief — not daily use.
Should You Take Antacid or Not?
If you have acidity once in a while, antacids can provide quick relief. But:
- Don’t make them a habit
- Overuse can cause side effects like diarrhea, electrolyte imbalance, and in some cases, blood pressure issues (especially with sodium-based formulas)
- They can also mask symptoms of more serious issues like ulcers or GERD
So, while popping an antacid like ENO might feel like an easy fix, it’s not a long-term solution.
When to Seek Medical Advice
If you’re experiencing acidity:
- More than twice a week
- For more than 2-3 weeks continuously
- At night, disturbing your sleep
- Along with difficulty swallowing or chronic coughing
It’s time to consult a gastroenterologist.
Visit LGI Hospital in Nagpur
LGI Hospital is one of the best gastroenterology hospitals in Nagpur, known for its advanced diagnostic methods and expert treatment of acidity, indigestion, and GERD.
Led by Dr. Prashant Bhandarkar, the hospital offers tailored solutions, from diet modification to medication and, if needed, endoscopic interventions — all aimed at curing the problem from the root, not just suppressing symptoms.
GERD: When Acidity Crosses the Line
If you continue to ignore frequent acidity, you might develop a condition called Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD).
Symptoms of GERD:
- Persistent heartburn
- Acid reflux even after light meals
- Hoarseness or sore throat
- Coughing at night
- Chest pain
- Feeling like food is stuck in the throat
GERD can lead to:
- Esophagitis (inflammation of the esophagus)
- Barrett’s Esophagus (a pre-cancerous condition)
- Breathing problems due to acid aspiration
This is why early diagnosis and treatment at a specialty hospital like LGI Hospital are crucial.
The Right Way to Deal with Acidity
If you’re tired of masking the symptoms with antacids like Digene and ENO, and want lasting relief, here’s what you should do:
- Eat smaller, more frequent meals
- Avoid spicy, acidic, and oily foods
- Don’t lie down immediately after meals
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Reduce stress and improve sleep
- Stay active
And most importantly, get evaluated by an expert.
It is not just a discomfort — it’s your body signaling that your digestive health needs attention.
Instead of masking the symptoms with temporary solutions we request to seek consultation from LGI Hospitals or your preferred health care expert. Early diagnosis can help you prevent complications like GERD, ulcers, and long-term digestive issues.If you’ve been experiencing recurring acidity, don’t wait. Book an appointment with Dr. Prashant Bhandarkar and take the first step towards a healthier gut.
Disclaimer:- The information provided in this blog is intended for general informational and educational purposes only. It reflects our recommendations based on available knowledge and best practices. However, individual health conditions can vary, and the applicability of this information may differ from patient to patient. We strongly advise you to consult your doctor or healthcare provider before implementing any suggestions, treatments, or lifestyle changes mentioned herein. Your healthcare professional is the best person to guide you based on your specific medical needs.