In recent years, acid reflux problems are no longer associated with old age. In fact, the increasing number of cases of acid reflux in young people has become a concern in the health world. Many teenagers and young adults complain of heartburn, a burning sensation in the chest, nausea, and discomfort after eating.
This condition is often considered trivial, even though if left untreated it can have a serious impact on the quality of life.
Causes of Increased Stomach Acid at a Young Age
The main factors causing increased stomach acid at a young age are:
1. Unhealthy lifestyle
Academic, work, and social pressures cause many young people to neglect regular mealtimes. Skipping breakfast, eating large portions at night, or lying down immediately after eating can trigger stomach acid to rise into the esophagus.
2. Food consumption
In addition, consuming spicy, sour, fatty foods and caffeinated drinks can also worsen stomach conditions.
3. Stress and psychological pressure
Stress is another equally important factor. The demands of life at a young age, such as academic goals, job competition, and personal problems, can trigger excessive stress. This psychological state directly impacts the digestive system because stress can increase stomach acid production. As a result, even if you have a healthy diet, acid reflux can still occur if stress is not managed properly.
4. Lack of physical activity
This phenomenon is also exacerbated by modern lifestyles that tend to be low on physical activity. Lack of exercise can slow down the digestive system and increase the risk of acid reflux.
5. Staying up late and not getting enough sleep
In addition, the habit of staying up late and not getting enough sleep, which is common at a young age, can disrupt hormonal balance and digestive organ function.
Unfortunately, many young people don't realize the importance of early treatment for acid reflux. Most choose to take painkillers or stomach medications without consulting a healthcare professional. However, continued, unsupervised use of medication can cause side effects and doesn't address the root of the problem.
How to Prevent and Treat Acid Reflux from a Young Age
To overcome this phenomenon, awareness is needed of the importance of a healthy lifestyle from a young age, namely:
- Maintain regular eating habits
- Choose types of food that are stomach-friendly
- Managing stress
- Regular exercise
These steps are simple yet effective. Furthermore, getting enough rest and avoiding bad habits like smoking and alcohol consumption also play a significant role in maintaining stomach health.
The phenomenon of acid reflux in young people is a reminder that health is not determined by age, but by lifestyle. With awareness and early habit changes, the risk of acid reflux can be minimized, allowing the younger generation to carry out daily activities more comfortably and productively.
The article was written by Dr. Ahmad Yusran, Sp.PD (Internal Medicine Specialist at EMC Pulomas Hospital).