When a Patient Says “Acidity”: What Doctors Actually Think About

When a patient comes to the clinic saying they have pitta or acidity, it immediately opens up multiple possible diagnoses in a doctor’s mind. “Acidity” is not a disease by itself—it is a symptom that can point toward several underlying conditions. Understanding this difference is crucial for accurate treatment.

One of the most common conditions associated with acidity-like symptoms is Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD).

What happens normally during digestion?

Acid production in the stomach is a normal and necessary process. The food we eat needs to be broken down into smaller components so that the body can absorb nutrients and generate energy.

Digestion begins in the mouth with saliva, then food passes through the food pipe into the stomach. In the stomach, hydrochloric acid is produced. The stomach environment is highly acidic, with a pH between 1.5 and 2.5. Along with acid, an enzyme called pepsin (released as pepsinogen) helps digest proteins. These enzymes work effectively only in an acidic environment, which is why stomach acid is essential.

Why does acid move upward in GERD?

The stomach functions much like a mixer. It churns food and breaks it down over a period of one to three hours. Normally, both the upper and lower ends of the stomach remain tightly closed during this process.

Between the food pipe (esophagus) and the stomach, there is a valve-like muscular structure that allows food to enter the stomach but prevents acid from flowing back upward. In conditions like GERD or hiatal hernia (where the stomach moves slightly upward into the chest), this valve becomes weak or loose. As a result, stomach acid starts moving upward into the food pipe.

Symptoms of GERD

The symptoms depend on how far the acid travels upward:

• Burning sensation in the chest (heartburn) is the most common symptom
• Regurgitation of food or sour liquid, especially when lying down
• Worsening symptoms at night or after meals
• Throat irritation or frequent throat infections
• Tooth erosion or sour taste in the mouth, especially on waking up
• Ear discomfort, due to connected pathways in the ear–nose–throat region

In some cases, acid can even enter the lungs. Patients with an allergic tendency or asthma may experience frequent asthma attacks triggered by acid reflux. If left untreated, long-term reflux can contribute to chronic lung conditions such as chronic pulmonary disease or lung fibrosis.

Why GERD is often mistaken for “simple acidity”

Most patients try basic remedies like drinking water or taking over-the-counter antacids before consulting a specialist. By the time symptoms become severe, they seek medical attention. This delay often happens because GERD is misunderstood as routine acidity rather than a chronic condition that needs proper evaluation.

Key takeaway

When someone says they have acidity, GERD is often the first condition doctors consider, but it is not the only one. Proper diagnosis depends on clearly identifying symptoms rather than relying on general terms.

If you would like to learn more about GERD, acid reflux symptoms, or related digestive conditions, feel free to ask in the comments section.