Acid reflux vomiting: Understanding the causes & treatments
Frequent acid reflux and vomiting can impact your daily life. Learn what causes it and how you can find relief.
Acid reflux vomiting: Understanding the causes & treatments
Frequent acid reflux and vomiting can impact your daily life. Learn what causes it and how you can find relief.
Acid reflux occurs when stomach acid flows back into the oesophagus, causing discomfort and irritation. In some cases, this reflux can lead to vomiting, particularly when the acid reaches the upper digestive tract and triggers nausea.
Living with frequent vomiting caused by acid reflux can be challenging, as it may interfere with daily activities, sleep, and overall well-being. If left untreated, it could lead to complications such as oesophagitis, ulcers, and an increased risk of Barrett’s oesophagus, a condition that may increase the likelihood of more severe digestive issues.
Vomiting due to acid reflux is a common issue, affecting millions of people worldwide. In Australia, approximately 10-15% of adults experience regular reflux symptoms. While occasional reflux is normal, persistent symptoms may indicate an underlying issue that requires medical attention.
Acid reflux occurs when stomach acid flows back into the oesophagus, causing discomfort and irritation. In some cases, this reflux can lead to vomiting, particularly when the acid reaches the upper digestive tract and triggers nausea.
Living with frequent vomiting caused by acid reflux can be challenging, as it may interfere with daily activities, sleep, and overall well-being. If left untreated, it could lead to complications such as oesophagitis, ulcers, and an increased risk of Barrett’s oesophagus, a condition that may increase the likelihood of more severe digestive issues.
Vomiting due to acid reflux is a common issue, affecting millions of people worldwide. In Australia, approximately 10-15% of adults experience regular reflux symptoms. While occasional reflux is normal, persistent symptoms may indicate an underlying issue that requires medical attention.
Causes of vomiting due to acid reflux
Weak lower oesophageal sphincter (LOS)
The lower oesophageal sphincter (LOS) is a ring of muscle that prevents stomach acid from flowing back into the oesophagus. When this muscle weakens, acid reflux vomiting can occur more frequently, leading to discomfort and irritation.
Dietary triggers
Certain foods and drinks can exacerbate acid reflux vomiting. Spicy foods, fatty meals, caffeine, alcohol, and acidic foods like citrus and tomatoes may contribute to symptoms by increasing stomach acid production or relaxing the LOS.
Smoking and alcohol consumption
Both smoking and excessive alcohol intake can weaken the LOS, making it easier for stomach acid to escape into the oesophagus and cause acid reflux. Reducing or avoiding these harmful substances may help minimise acid reflux symptoms.
Pregnancy-related reflux
Hormonal changes and increased abdominal pressure during pregnancy can lead to acid reflux vomiting. Many pregnant individuals experience symptoms, especially during the later stages, as the growing baby exerts pressure on the stomach.
Weak lower oesophageal sphincter (LOS)
The lower oesophageal sphincter (LOS) is a ring of muscle that prevents stomach acid from flowing back into the oesophagus. When this muscle weakens, acid reflux vomiting can occur more frequently, leading to discomfort and irritation.
Dietary triggers
Certain foods and drinks can exacerbate acid reflux vomiting. Spicy foods, fatty meals, caffeine, alcohol, and acidic foods like citrus and tomatoes may contribute to symptoms by increasing stomach acid production or relaxing the LOS.
Smoking and alcohol consumption
Both smoking and excessive alcohol intake can weaken the LOS, making it easier for stomach acid to escape into the oesophagus and cause acid reflux. Reducing or avoiding these harmful substances may help minimise acid reflux symptoms.
Pregnancy-related reflux
Hormonal changes and increased abdominal pressure during pregnancy can lead to acid reflux vomiting. Many pregnant individuals experience symptoms, especially during the later stages, as the growing baby exerts pressure on the stomach.
Symptoms of vomiting caused by acid reflux
Symptoms can vary depending on the severity of the condition. Some of the most common signs include:
- Burning sensation in the chest: A painful, burning feeling in the chest, particularly after eating or when lying down.
- Sour taste in the mouth: A bitter or acidic taste caused by stomach acid leaving the stomach and reaching the throat.
- Nausea and frequent vomiting: Some individuals may experience episodes of nausea and vomiting after reflux occurs.
- Difficulty swallowing: The feeling of food obstructing the throat due to irritation or inflammation of the oesophagus.
Symptoms of vomiting caused by acid reflux
Symptoms can vary depending on the severity of the condition. Some of the most common signs include:
- Burning sensation in the chest: A painful, burning feeling in the chest, particularly after eating or when lying down.
- Sour taste in the mouth: A bitter or acidic taste caused by stomach acid leaving the stomach and reaching the throat.
- Nausea and frequent vomiting: Some individuals may experience episodes of nausea and vomiting after reflux occurs.
- Difficulty swallowing: The feeling of food obstructing the throat due to irritation or inflammation of the oesophagus.
Diagnosis of vomiting caused by acid reflux
To diagnose vomiting from acid reflux, healthcare professionals may recommend several tests:
pH monitoring
This test measures acid levels in the oesophagus over a 24-hour period to determine how frequently reflux occurs.
Endoscopy
A thin, flexible tube with a camera is inserted into the oesophagus to check for damage caused by acid reflux vomiting.
Barium swallow test
A patient swallows a barium solution, which helps highlight any structural issues in the oesophagus during an X-ray.
Oesophageal manometry
This test assesses the function of the oesophageal muscles to determine if they are working properly to prevent reflux.
If acid reflux is persistent or severe, it is essential to seek medical advice to rule out complications and determine the best course of treatment.
Diagnosis of vomiting caused by acid reflux
To diagnose vomiting from acid reflux, healthcare professionals may recommend several tests:
pH monitoring
This test measures acid levels in the oesophagus over a 24-hour period to determine how frequently reflux occurs.
Endoscopy
A thin, flexible tube with a camera is inserted into the oesophagus to check for damage caused by acid reflux vomiting.
Barium swallow test
A patient swallows a barium solution, which helps highlight any structural issues in the oesophagus during an X-ray.
Oesophageal manometry
This test assesses the function of the oesophageal muscles to determine if they are working properly to prevent reflux.
If acid reflux is persistent or severe, it is essential to seek medical advice to rule out complications and determine the best course of treatment.
Treatment options for vomiting from acid reflux
Making adjustments to daily habits can significantly reduce symptoms of vomiting from acid reflux. Avoiding trigger foods such as spicy, fatty, or acidic meals, eating smaller portions, and refraining from late-night meals can help minimise discomfort. Elevating the head of the bed while sleeping and maintaining a healthy weight may also reduce pressure on the stomach and prevent acid from flowing back into the oesophagus. For symptom management, various medications may be prescribed, including antacids for quick relief, H2 receptor blockers to reduce acid production, and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) to lower stomach acid levels and promote healing. In severe cases where lifestyle changes and medications do not provide sufficient relief, a doctor may recommend medical procedures such as fundoplication, a surgical option that strengthens the lower oesophageal sphincter (LOS) to prevent vomiting from acid reflux.
Treatment options for vomiting from acid reflux
Making adjustments to daily habits can significantly reduce symptoms of vomiting from acid reflux. Avoiding trigger foods such as spicy, fatty, or acidic meals, eating smaller portions, and refraining from late-night meals can help minimise discomfort. Elevating the head of the bed while sleeping and maintaining a healthy weight may also reduce pressure on the stomach and prevent acid from flowing back into the oesophagus. For symptom management, various medications may be prescribed, including antacids for quick relief, H2 receptor blockers to reduce acid production, and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) to lower stomach acid levels and promote healing. In severe cases where lifestyle changes and medications do not provide sufficient relief, a doctor may recommend medical procedures such as fundoplication, a surgical option that strengthens the lower oesophageal sphincter (LOS) to prevent vomiting from acid reflux.
Don’t ignore acid reflux —seek help today
Acid reflux is more than an occasional inconvenience—it may significantly impact your health if left untreated. Chronic symptoms can lead to oesophageal damage and other complications, making early intervention important.
If you frequently experience acid reflux symptoms like a burning sensation in your stomach, seeking medical advice is essential. A healthcare professional can help identify the underlying causes and recommend the best treatment options to improve your digestive health.
Take control of your symptoms—schedule an appointment today.
Don’t ignore acid reflux —seek help today
Acid reflux is more than an occasional inconvenience—it may significantly impact your health if left untreated. Chronic symptoms can lead to oesophageal damage and other complications, making early intervention important.
If you frequently experience acid reflux symptoms like a burning sensation in your stomach, seeking medical advice is essential. A healthcare professional can help identify the underlying causes and recommend the best treatment options to improve your digestive health.
Take control of your symptoms—schedule an appointment today.
FAQs
Can stress contribute to acid reflux?
Yes, stress can exacerbate digestive issues, including acid reflux. Stress-related behaviours such as overeating, consuming trigger foods, or increased stomach acid production can worsen symptoms.
How long does acid reflux last?
The duration of acid reflux varies depending on the cause and severity. Occasional symptoms may resolve within a few hours, while chronic reflux requires long-term management.
Are there any home remedies for acid reflux?
Some individuals find relief by drinking herbal teas, chewing gum to increase saliva production, or consuming non-acidic foods like oatmeal and bananas. However, these should not replace medical treatment if symptoms persist.
Can acid reflux lead to long-term health problems?
If left untreated, acid reflux can cause complications such as oesophageal inflammation, ulcers, and an increased risk of Barrett’s oesophagus. Managing symptoms early can help prevent these issues.
Does exercise worsen acid reflux?
Certain exercises, particularly high-impact activities or those that involve bending and twisting, can trigger reflux symptoms. Low-impact activities like walking or yoga may be better suited for individuals prone to acid reflux.