Acid reflux in the elderly, what are the causes and symptoms?

Acid reflux disease is the most common digestive disorder. However, among the many people who have this disorder, most of them are dominated by the elderly group. Yes, as you get older, the more you are at risk for developing acid reflux. In addition, this disease can be a serious problem for the elderly. Then what is the difference between stomach acid disease that occurs in the elderly and adults?

What causes acid reflux in the elderly?

Acid reflux disease or medically known as Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a condition in which stomach acid rises to the throat due to weak throat valve muscles. This disorder can be caused by various things, but in the elderly it tends to be caused by several factors.

Elderly with several chronic conditions have a higher risk of developing acid reflux disease. Most of them may be taking drugs to treat the symptoms of chronic illness, but these drugs can cause the throat valve muscles to become loose.

Weight gain, which often occurs in the elderly, can also cause acid reflux disease to occur. Fat that has accumulated in the stomach can put pressure on the stomach, thereby increasing the pressure in the digestive organs. This condition then causes stomach acid to rise up into the throat.

What are the symptoms of acid reflux that can be experienced by the elderly?

Actually, the symptoms of acid reflux that are experienced by the elderly are not much different from that of acid reflux that occurs in adults. However, in the elderly, the symptoms of acid reflux disease can be more severe and varied. The following are some of the symptoms of acid reflux that can appear in the elderly:

Dry cough.
The voice becomes hoarse.
Feeling like a lump (pile of food) in the throat
Difficulty swallowing, this results in decreased appetite and weight loss.
Difficulty breathing.
Heartburn, a burning sensation in the gut.
Have a chronic sore throat.

How to deal with acid reflux in the elderly?

If you experience this, you should consult a doctor to get the right treatment. However, you can do the following things to reduce the symptoms of acid reflux that appear:

Avoid eating foods that trigger acid reflux, such as chocolate, oranges, tomatoes, vinegar, spicy foods, and foods high in fat.
Avoid consuming drinks that contain caffeine such as coffee, tea, and soft drinks. These types of drinks can cause the throat valve muscles to relax and increase the risk of developing stomach acid.
Try to eat small, frequent meals.
Do not go to sleep or lie down after eating. At least you have to wait for three hours before sleeping.
Sleep with your head 15-20 cm higher than your body. This will prevent stomach acid from rising while you sleep.
Wear loose and comfortable clothes. Avoid wearing clothes that are tight in the waist and stomach area.
You can take medications to help relieve acid reflux, which are drugs that contain antacids. However, preferably before you take these drugs, first discuss them with your doctor.