Residents ignore acid reflux, 30% of population affected

A senior consultant at the University Hospital Sharjah has said acid reflux, a common ailment, is generally overlooked by the residents of UAE.

The figures show that 30 per cent of the population (nearly 3 million people) suffer from acid reflux in the country.

Acid reflux occurs when food flows back into the oesophagus, causing heartburn and coughing.

Dr Ahmad Munzer Alwaa, Senior Consultant and head of the ENT department at the UHS, said that many young patients are seeking treatment for sore throat, often caused by an improper diet and a poor lifestyle.

Although common causes for a sore throat are viral infections resulting in coughs or colds, and drinking very cold water in hot temperatures, acid reflux is is also a reason.

Dr Ahmad said that many children visiting UHS suffer from acid reflux as a result of eating spicy and fatty foods from fast food eateries. "Diets of children have changed noticeably," the doctor added.

Dr Alwaa warned against eating spicy and crunchy cheese-flavoured snacks and drinking very cold water from water dispensers, which could cause irritation and trigger a sore throat.

Other dietary causes for acid reflux include excess use of tea, coffee and alcohol, smoking, and eating just before bed.

The doctor's advice included not lying down flat on your back after eating and to consult doctor if ulcer is suspected. The ENT department at the UHS also deals with a number of allergy cases.

reporters@khaleejtimes.com