Understanding Acid Peptic Disorder
Discover the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for Acid Peptic Disorder (APD), including gastritis, ulcers, and acid reflux. Learn how to manage APD with medications, diet, lifestyle changes, and when to seek medical help.
Written by Dr. Shaik Abdul Kalam
Reviewed by Dr. Mohammed Kamran MBBS, FIDM
Last updated on 28th Jul, 2025
Introduction
Acid Peptic Disorder (APD) is a common digestive condition that affects many people. It occurs when there is an imbalance between stomach acid and the protective lining of the stomach and intestines. This imbalance can lead to discomfort, pain, and sometimes more serious complications if left untreated.
APD includes conditions like:
Gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining)
Gastric ulcers (sores in the stomach)
Duodenal ulcers (sores in the first part of the small intestine)
GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease) (acid reflux causing heartburn)
If you frequently experience stomach pain, burning sensations, or indigestion, you might be suffering from APD. The good news is that with the right care and lifestyle changes, it can be managed effectively.
Symptoms of Acid Peptic Disorder
The symptoms of APD can vary from mild to severe. Common signs include:
Burning pain or discomfort in the upper abdomen (often called heartburn)
Bloating and fullness after meals
Nausea or vomiting (sometimes with blood if ulcers are severe)
Loss of appetite
Frequent burping or hiccups
Acid reflux (a sour taste in the mouth, especially at night)
Black or tarry stools (a sign of bleeding ulcers)
If you experience severe symptoms like vomiting blood, sudden sharp stomach pain, or unexplained weight loss, seek medical help immediately.
What Causes Acid Peptic Disorder?
Several factors contribute to APD:
1. Excess Stomach Acid: Overproduction of acid can damage the stomach lining.
2. H. Pylori Infection: A common bacterial infection that causes ulcers.
3. Frequent Use of Painkillers: NSAIDs (like ibuprofen or aspirin) can irritate the stomach.
4. Stress & Anxiety: While stress doesn’t directly cause ulcers, it can worsen symptoms.
5. Unhealthy Eating Habits: Spicy, oily, or acidic foods can trigger acid reflux.
6. Smoking & Alcohol: These weaken the stomach’s protective lining.
7. Obesity & Sedentary Lifestyle: Excess weight increases pressure on the stomach, leading to reflux.
How to Manage & Treat Acid Peptic Disorder
This is how you can manage and treat acid peptic disorder:
1. Medical Treatment
Antacids: Provide quick relief by neutralizing stomach acid.
H2 Blockers (e.g., Ranitidine): Reduce acid production.
PPIs (Proton Pump Inhibitors like Omeprazole): Stronger acid reducers for severe cases.
Antibiotics: If an H. pylori infection is present.
If symptoms persist, consult a doctor. You can easily book a consultation with a gastroenterologist on Apollo 24|7 for expert advice.
Consult Top Specialists for Personalised Tips
2. Dietary Changes
Eat smaller, frequent meals instead of large portions.
Avoid spicy, fried, and acidic foods (citrus fruits, tomatoes, coffee, chocolate).
Include fiber-rich foods (oats, bananas, whole grains) to aid digestion.
Stay hydrated but avoid carbonated drinks.
Chew food slowly to reduce stomach workload.
3. Lifestyle Adjustments
Quit smoking & limit alcohol: They worsen acid production.
Maintain a healthy weight: Reduces pressure on the stomach.
Avoid lying down immediately after eating: Wait at least 2-3 hours.
Elevate your head while sleeping to prevent nighttime reflux.
Manage stress: Practice yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises.
4. Home Remedies (For Mild Cases)
Drink cold milk or coconut water: Soothes irritation.
Chew fennel seeds or ginger: Helps digestion.
Aloe vera juice: Reduces inflammation.
When to See a Doctor?
While mild APD can be managed at home, consult a doctor if:
Symptoms last more than two weeks.
You experience severe pain or vomiting blood.
You notice sudden weight loss.
Over-the-counter medicines don’t help.
Early diagnosis prevents complications like bleeding ulcers or stomach perforation. Schedule a test or consultation on Apollo 24|7 if needed.
Conclusion
Acid Peptic Disorder is uncomfortable but manageable. With the right diet, lifestyle changes, and medical support, you can keep symptoms under control. Listen to your body, avoid triggers, and seek help when needed.
Consult Top physician
Consult Top Specialists for Personalised Tips
Dr. Liritha C
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
5 Years • MBBS, MD (GENERAL MEDICINE)
Hyderabad
Apollo 24|7 Clinic, Hyderabad
Dr. M L Ezhilarasan
General Practitioner
6 Years • MBBS
Visakhapatnam
Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Andhra Pradesh, Visakhapatnam
Dr. Lakshmi Sanjitha Kakani
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
6 Years • MBBS, MD (General Medicine)
Visakhapatnam
Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Andhra Pradesh, Visakhapatnam
Dr. D Bhanu Prakash
General Practitioner
10 Years • MBBS, AFIH, Advanced certificate in critical care medicine, Fellowship in critical care medicine
Hyderabad
Apollo 24|7 Clinic, Hyderabad
Dr. Vasanthasree Nair
General Practitioner
15 Years • MBBS
Angamaly
Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Kerala, Angamaly
(425+ Patients)
Consult Top physician
Dr. Liritha C
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
5 Years • MBBS, MD (GENERAL MEDICINE)
Hyderabad
Apollo 24|7 Clinic, Hyderabad
Dr. M L Ezhilarasan
General Practitioner
6 Years • MBBS
Visakhapatnam
Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Andhra Pradesh, Visakhapatnam
Dr. Lakshmi Sanjitha Kakani
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
6 Years • MBBS, MD (General Medicine)
Visakhapatnam
Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Andhra Pradesh, Visakhapatnam
Dr. D Bhanu Prakash
General Practitioner
10 Years • MBBS, AFIH, Advanced certificate in critical care medicine, Fellowship in critical care medicine
Hyderabad
Apollo 24|7 Clinic, Hyderabad
Dr. Vasanthasree Nair
General Practitioner
15 Years • MBBS
Angamaly
Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Kerala, Angamaly
(425+ Patients)
