Acid reflux is a frequent pregnant side effect. Acid reflux during pregnancy is normal for all. It may be managed with over-the-counter antacids, prescription drugs, and home therapies like elevating the head of the bed.
Symptoms
Heartburn, or a burning feeling in the center of the chest, is the main sign of acid reflux. It could be accompanied with a sensation of fullness or heaviness in the stomach or chest.
An individual might be more susceptible to heartburn:
- After eating a meal or drinking
- When lying down
- When bending over
Although heartburn can strike anyone at any time, it is especially frequent among pregnant women.
Other potential symptoms of acid reflux include:
- A Bitter Taste in the mouth
- Sore Throat
- Cough
- Bloating
- Belching
- Nausea
- Vomiting
Causes
An earlier study from 2010Trusted Source states that approximately 80% of pregnancies are affected by severe acid reflux or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Although it can occur at any point in the pregnancy, heartburn is most frequently experienced in the second and third trimesters. Acid reflux during pregnancy is normal during baby.
The reason why acid reflux starts or gets worse later in pregnancy is still a mystery to researchers. But these are some of the things they think are important.
Hormonal changes
A woman’s production of the hormone progesterone rises throughout pregnancy. The body’s smooth muscle tissue relaxes as a result of this hormone. It is crucial for the uterus to relax in order for it to expand and contract as the fetus grows. Acid reflux during pregnancy has been associated with hormonal changes.
Progesterone, however, also has the ability to loosen the sphincter muscle, which joins the esophagus and stomach. Food can pass through the sphincter into the stomach, but it keeps food and stomach acid from passing up into the esophagus. The sphincter is loosened by progesterone, allowing acid to pass back up the esophagus.
Increased Pressure on the Stomach
The expanding fetus and uterus impose increased strain on the stomach as the pregnancy progresses. Acid may seep up the esophagus from the stomach as a result of this pressure. When the stomach is full after a meal, there is a higher chance of leaking.
Treatment
Pregnant women should see their doctor before using any particular heartburn medication. What medications are safe for the lady and the growing fetus can be advised by a doctor. Acid reflux during pregnancy has been treated by many ways.
Pregnant women can safely take one of three major forms of heartburn medication, according to UT Southwestern Medical Center. These drugs are:
Proton Pump Inhibitors
Drugs known as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) prevent the stomach from overproducing acid. They function by preventing the production of an enzyme required for stomach acid.
Lansoprazole (Prevacid) and omeprazole (Prilosec) are two examples of PPIs.
PPIs can take several days to start working efficiently, so people should be aware of this. Therefore, individuals might want to think about starting with an antacid or H2-receptor antagonist.
Home Remedies
A person can use natural remedies at home to assist manage acid reflux in addition to medicine. Acid reflux during pregnancy has been been monitor and controlled by home remedies. The following advice is provided by NIDDKTrusted Source for naturally lowering stomach acid:
Putting the bed’s head up 8–12 inches off the ground to sleep at a small incline, sitting up for three hours after a meal, and wearing baggy clothes around the belly
Don’t consume anything two to three hours before bed.
Consuming smaller meals
Staying away from fried or spicy meals that can cause heartburn
Consult your healthcare professional before using any natural heartburn remedies if you are pregnant. A medical professional can assist in determining the efficacy and safety of the treatment for the mother and fetus.
Prevention
It might not always be able to avoid heartburn and acid reflux when pregnant. On the other hand, women can better manage their symptoms when they arise by using the preceding approaches. Acid reflux during pregnancy has been prevent by special medication.
When to See a Doctor
If over-the-counter or at-home remedies are ineffective for severe or persistent heartburn, pregnant women should consult a doctor. Sometimes, symptoms behind the ribcage that resemble heartburn can indicate preeclampsia. This dangerous illness can endanger both the woman’s and the fetus’ lives if frequent monitoring and any necessary treatment are not received. Acid reflux during pregnancy should be discussed with your doctor.
- High Blood Pressure
- Face, hands, and feet’s Swelling
- Severe Headache
- Problems with vision
Attending all planned routine prenatal checkups is crucial. By taking this action, you may make sure that medical professionals notice any health problems that develop throughout the pregnancy.