Eat, Drink, and Be Comfortable: Managing Acid Reflux Through the Holidays

Managing Acid Reflux During the Holiday Season

The holiday season is synonymous with large, rich meals and festive celebrations, but for individuals who suffer from acid reflux, these indulgences can lead to discomfort. Acid reflux, or gastroesophageal reflux, is a condition where stomach acid backs up into the esophagus, causing painful symptoms such as heartburn, bloating, and even regurgitation. This happens when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), a muscle at the top of the stomach that normally prevents acid from rising up into the esophagus, fails to function properly. While occasional acid reflux after a heavy meal isn't uncommon, frequent episodes may lead to GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease), a more serious and chronic condition.

Dr. Ramie A. Tritt of Atlanta ENT, Sinus & Allergy Associates, P.C. specializes in diagnosing and treating acid reflux and its complications, including Barrett's esophagus, a condition where abnormal cells grow in the esophagus and can potentially lead to esophageal cancer. His expertise can help those struggling with the painful and sometimes serious effects of acid reflux.

Common Symptoms of Acid Reflux

Acid reflux can manifest in several ways, with common symptoms including:

• Heartburn
• Sour or bitter taste in the mouth
• Excessive belching
• Nausea or stomach pain
• Bloating
• Regurgitation of food or stomach acid

A more severe form of acid reflux is laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR), where the stomach contents reach as far as the throat or even the nasal passages. This can cause hoarseness, throat pain, and other issues related to the airway, which is why seeing an ENT specialist is so crucial.

Why See an ENT for Acid Reflux?

Acid reflux can cause significant damage to the throat, leading to complications like:

• Hoarseness
• Swallowing difficulties
• Airway narrowing (stenosis)
• Sinus and ear infections
• Throat pain and inflammation

By addressing acid reflux early, you can reduce the risk of developing these complications. Fortunately, early-stage reflux often responds well to medications that neutralize stomach acid or reduce acid production, as well as lifestyle changes that can help manage the condition long-term.

Triggers of Acid Reflux During the Holidays

Holiday meals are often rich, fatty, and spicy—perfect for triggering reflux. Other common triggers include overeating and eating late at night, both of which put pressure on the stomach and can overwhelm the LES. Stress from holiday activities like shopping, traveling, and hosting gatherings can also increase the likelihood of reflux symptoms.

Managing Acid Reflux During the Holidays

Here are some tips to help manage acid reflux during the festive season:

• Eat smaller meals: Avoid overeating and try to enjoy smaller, more frequent meals.
• Avoid lying down after meals: Wait at least two to three hours before reclining to reduce the likelihood of acid rising into the esophagus.
• Stay mindful of trigger foods: Rich, fatty, and spicy foods are more likely to cause reflux. Opt for lighter fare when possible.
• Manage stress: Finding ways to relax and decompress can help keep reflux symptoms in check.

Schedule an Appointment with Dr. Tritt

If acid reflux is causing you discomfort this holiday season, or if you’re concerned about more serious conditions like GERD or Barrett's esophagus, Dr. Ramie A. Tritt is ready to help. He offers personalized care and treatment plans designed to address acid reflux and its complications.

To schedule a consultation, call one of Dr. Tritt’s offices today:

• Atlanta location: 404-891-6576
• Cumming location: 404-255-2918

You can also reach out via email at contactus@atlantaent.com or book an appointment online. Take control of your acid reflux and enjoy the holiday season without discomfort!

Author

Ramie A. Tritt, MD Ramie A. Tritt, MD, FRCSC, specializes in nasal and sinus surgery as well as snoring and sleep apnea surgery at Atlanta ENT, Sinus & Allergy Associates, P.C.’s Sandy Springs location in Atlanta, Georgia. Dr. Tritt graduated from medical school with honors from McGill University in Montreal, Canada. He completed his otolaryngology residency at McGill University and his fellowship in otology and head and neck surgery at Upstate Medical Center in Syracuse, New York. He is a diplomate of the American Board of Otolaryngology and a fellow of the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, and the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. Dr. Tritt is a member of the Medical Association of Georgia and the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery. Dr. Tritt has been an instructor at national ENT meetings, a Medical Advisory Board member for computer image-guided sinus surgery, and been recognized by Atlanta Magazine as a “Doctor Who Doctors Go To”.