New Delhi. Persistent acidity is usually due to reflux of acid from the stomach into the food pipe. Mild cases of acidity reflux can usually be managed with lifestyle and dietary modifications along with antacids, H2 blockers and proton pump inhibitors.

However, patients in whom lifestyle management together with empirical treatment is unsuccessful or those who have symptoms suggestive of complicated diseases should undergo endoscopy to rule out cancer of the food pipe, a condition linked with persistent acidity. This was stated by Dr KK Aggarwal, President Heart Care Foundation of India.

He said that symptoms that may suggest complicated disease include loss of appetite, loss of weight, and difficulty in swallowing food, bleeding and signs of systemic illness. Lifestyle changes for reflux involve elevation of head and of the body, avoidance of food before sleep and avoidance of food which makes the food pipe valve lax. Examples of such foods include fatty food, chocolates, peppermint and excessive intake of alcohol.