Six symptoms of painful condition that's sparked by eating festive food

24 December 2023 , 13:48

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Christmas dinner could be a mouthful too much for some suffering from a festive food symptom (stock) (Image: Getty Images)

With Christmas trimmings and the holiday season fast approaching, it's vital to be aware of a painful condition caused by eating the festive delicacies on offer.

Advice from the NHS has listed six symptoms that could be a sign of heartburn and acid reflux, brought on by gobbling up pigs in blankets or an extra slice of Christmas pudding. There are more than a few ways around the symptoms which can lead to sickness, a hoarse voice and in some cases an unpleasant taste in the mouth. Those hoping to prevent the festive food fallout can follow a handful of listed remedies, that should prevent the condition developing into a more serious gastro-oesophageal reflux disease diagnosis.

Stomach pains and an acid reflux can be avoided this Christmas season (stock) (Getty Images)

There are two main symptoms of acid reflux, which may be accompanied by four underlying, temporary health bouts. Heartburn and an unpleasant sour taste in your mouth are the leading symptoms; the former causing a burning sensation while the latter presents a strange taste through stomach acid levels. Further symptoms can include a cough or hiccups, a hoarse voice, bad breath and bloating. The bloating may lead to feelings of sickness, and symptoms can get worse after eating, when bending over, or when lying down.

There are some solutions to Christmas gluttony though, with the avoidance of certain foods and drinks necessary to alleviate pain. Coffee, alcohol, chocolate, tomatoes, and fatty or spicy foods are to be avoided to give the body a break. Other causes include smoking, pregnancy, stress, anxiety, being overweight, anti-inflammatory medications - such as ibuprofen - and a hiatus hernia where the stomach moves up into your chest.

Quicker fixes for those suffering a bout of acid reflux or heartburn include having smaller, frequent meals, as well as losing weight and finding ways to relax. Raising the head end of the bed by 10 to 20cm also helps, with the chest and head above the level of your waist to prevent stomach acid travelling upwards to your throat. There are also a number of foods and activities to avoid during recovery. Food or drink that triggers the symptoms must be avoided, as well as smoking. Alcohol is not prohibited, but the NHS site lists "too much" as a step too far for those suffering from heartburn. Tight clothes and eating three or four hours before bed were not advised.

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