Disease asam lGastritis is quite common in pregnant women, especially in the last trimester of pregnancy. The main symptom is a burning sensation in the pit of the stomach (heartburn).Acid reflux disease during pregnancy can have serious consequences. Therefore, pregnant women need to know how to treat it.
Acid reflux disease (GERD) in pregnant women usually occurs in the second and third trimesters of pregnancy. Stomach acid can rise up into the esophagus causing symptoms heartburn.
There are several reasons that cause pregnant women to experience this. One of them is because the stomach is pressured by the growing uterus.
The Impact of Stomach Acid Disease During Pregnancy
Although the symptoms often occur in pregnant women, it does not mean that acid reflux disease can be ignored. The reason is, this condition can have a bad impact if allowed to drag on without treatment. The following are some of the complications of acid reflux disease:
Esophageal ulcer
Esophageal ulcers are sores on the lining of the esophagus caused by acid reflux. Initially, stomach acid will only cause inflammation or esophagitis. However, if it persists, the inflammation can get worse and eventually form sores that cause chest or heartburn and difficulty swallowing (dysphagia).
In addition, sores that form due to stomach acid can be very deep and cause bleeding. Even if the bleeding is small, it can cause anemia which is dangerous for pregnant women.
Esophageal stricture
In addition to developing into sores, inflammation of the esophagus caused by stomach acid can also form scar tissue. This scar tissue narrows the esophagus, making it difficult to swallow.
Barrett's esophagus
Barrett's esophagus is a condition when the tissue in the lower esophageal wall changes until it becomes similar to the tissue in the intestinal wall. This condition does not cause certain symptoms, but can increase the risk of developing esophageal cancer.
How to treat acid reflux disease during pregnancy
Immediately see a doctor if pregnant women experience symptoms of acid reflux disease. To relieve symptoms, your doctor will likely prescribe medications, such as:
1. Antacids
Antacids work by neutralizing stomach acid. However, pregnant women need to know, this drug can interfere with the absorption of iron in the intestines. Therefore, use antacids as directed by your doctor.
The dose and duration of use of antacids will be determined by the doctor according to the condition of the pregnant woman. Side effects that may occur while using this drug are nausea, constipation, diarrhea, or headache.
2. Omeprazole
This drug works by reducing the amount of acid produced by the stomach. Omeprazole prescribed to be taken once a day before meals. Although safe for consumption by pregnant women, omeprazole can cause side effects, such as headache, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting.
3. Ranitidine
Ranitidine can also relieve acid reflux disease by reducing stomach acid production. This drug is usually taken 2 times a day and side effects that may arise include drowsiness, constipation, and headaches.
Acid reflux disease in pregnant women needs to be addressed. Apart from the fact that the symptoms can make pregnant women feel uncomfortable, this condition can also have serious consequences. Medicines from a doctor can reduce the symptoms of acid reflux disease. However, this treatment also needs to be accompanied by an appropriate diet.
If pregnant women experience symptoms of rising stomach acid, it is better to eat a little but often rather than eating large amounts at once. Also, avoid eating spicy, sour, or oily foods and drinks high in caffeine. When eating, do not lie down so that the uterus does not press against the stomach.
If the symptoms that pregnant women experience are getting worse, especially to the point that they cause difficulty swallowing, weight loss, or the stools become watery and black, immediately consult a doctor to get the right treatment.