Why Your Acidity Medicines Stop Working: Understanding Refractory GERD in Chandigarh
Acidity, heartburn, and burning pain in the chest or upper stomach are extremely common problems in Chandigarh and nearby areas. Many people start taking acidity tablets on their own or continue the same medicine for years. Initially, the medicines work well. But after some time, patients notice something frustrating — the tablets no longer give relief.
If you are taking acidity medicines regularly but still feel burning, gas, bloating, sour burps, or stomach discomfort, you are not alone. This condition is medically known as refractory GERD, meaning acid reflux that does not respond properly to standard treatment.
In this blog, Dr. Sandeep Pal explains why this happens, what it means for your digestive health, and how it can be managed correctly.
What Is GERD and Why Does It Happen?
GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease) occurs when stomach acid repeatedly flows back into the food pipe. This backflow irritates the lining of the esophagus and causes symptoms like:
- Burning sensation in chest or throat
- Sour or bitter taste in mouth
- Gas and bloating
- Painful stomach cramps
- Nausea after meals
- Difficulty sleeping due to acidity
In North India, GERD is strongly linked to food habits, irregular meal timings, stress, and lifestyle factors.
Why Acidity Medicines Stop Working Over Time
Many patients ask, “Doctor, earlier one tablet used to help, now even two don’t work.”
There are several important reasons for this:
1. Incorrect Diagnosis
Not all burning or stomach pain is due to acid reflux. Conditions like gastritis, functional dyspepsia, bile reflux, or stress-related stomach disorders can feel similar but need different treatment.
2. Wrong Timing of Medication
Acidity medicines work best when taken at a specific time (usually before meals). Taking them incorrectly reduces their effect.
3. Overuse Without Medical Supervision
Long-term self-medication can reduce effectiveness and hide the real problem instead of treating it.
4. Stress and Anxiety
Mental stress has a strong effect on the gut. Stress can increase acid production and make the stomach more sensitive, causing painful stomach cramps even with mild acidity.
5. Diet and Lifestyle Triggers
Spicy food, fried snacks, late-night meals, tea, coffee, smoking, and alcohol can overpower the effect of medicines.
Understanding Refractory GERD
When acidity symptoms continue despite proper medication, doctors call it refractory GERD. This does not mean the condition is dangerous, but it does mean that:
- The treatment plan needs review
- Lifestyle factors must be corrected
- Sometimes further evaluation is needed
Ignoring long-standing acidity can lead to complications like food pipe irritation, ulcers, or poor quality of life.
Common Symptoms Patients Ignore
Many people normalize these warning signs:
- Daily acidity despite medication
- Frequent gas and bloating
- Pain after eating
- Night-time acidity disturbing sleep
- Burning pain spreading to chest or back
- Feeling full after small meals
If these symptoms last more than a few weeks, a gastroenterologist should be consulted.
How Refractory GERD Is Managed Properly
At Dr. Sandeep Pal’s clinic in Sector 33, Chandigarh, treatment is personalized and step-wise.
1. Detailed History and Medication Review
Understanding when symptoms started, what triggers them, and which medicines are being used is crucial.
2. Dietary Counseling
Patients are guided on:
- Meal timing
- Portion size
- Foods to avoid and include
- Simple North Indian diet modifications
3. Stress Management Techniques
Stress reduction plays a major role. Relaxation techniques, sleep correction, and counseling help calm the gut.
4. Medication Adjustment
Sometimes the dose, type, or combination of medicines needs correction — not just increasing tablets.
5. Further Evaluation (If Needed)
If symptoms persist, further testing may be advised to rule out gastritis, ulcers, or other digestive conditions.
Why Ignoring Chronic Acidity Is Risky
Untreated or poorly managed acidity can lead to:
- Chronic gastritis
- Food pipe irritation
- Difficulty swallowing
- Poor appetite
- Sleep disturbances
- Reduced work productivity
Early evaluation prevents long-term problems.
When Should You See a Gastroenterologist in Chandigarh?
You should seek expert care if:
- Acidity medicines stop working
- Symptoms last more than 2–3 weeks
- Pain is severe or recurring
- There is vomiting, weight loss, or black stools
- Stress worsens stomach symptoms
FAQs — Common Patient Questions
- Is daily acidity normal?
No. Occasional acidity is common, but daily symptoms need evaluation. - Can stress alone cause acidity?
Yes. Stress can trigger acid production and stomach sensitivity. - Should I stop my acidity medicines suddenly?
No. Always consult a doctor before stopping or changing medicines. - Does spicy food permanently damage the stomach?
Not permanently, but frequent intake worsens acidity symptoms. - Is gas always related to acidity?
No. Gas can occur due to poor digestion, food intolerance, or stress. - Can acidity cause chest pain?
Yes. Acid reflux pain can mimic heart pain. - Is long-term acidity dangerous?
If untreated, it can cause complications over time. - Does late-night eating worsen GERD?
Yes. Eating late increases acid reflux risk. - Are home remedies enough?
They help mild cases but cannot treat chronic GERD. - Who should I consult for persistent acidity?
A qualified gastroenterologist is the right specialist.
Final Thoughts
If your acidity medicines are no longer giving relief, it is a signal — not a failure. It simply means your digestive system needs a better evaluation and personalized treatment plan.
Dr. Sandeep Pal, a trusted gastroenterologist in Chandigarh, helps patients identify the real cause behind persistent acidity, painful stomach cramps, and stress-related digestive issues.
📍 Clinic Address:
SCO 26, First Floor, Sector 33-D, Chandigarh — 160020
📞 Appointment Number: 98777 06034
🌐 Website: www.drsandeeppal.com
Early care can prevent complications and restore digestive comfort.
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