Wrong treatment worsening APD, 90% patients unaware:Doctors warn patients ignore symptoms as gas, delaying diagnosis and treatment

Hospitals in Bhopal are witnessing a growing number of patients suffering from throat irritation, acidity, and voice-related issues for months—often mistaking them for simple gas or acidity. According to senior ENT specialist Dr. Yashveer JK, these symptoms may indicate Acid Peptic Disorder (APD), which can gradually cause serious damage to the throat if left untreated. 90% patients take wrong treatment initially Doctors say nearly 90% of patients initially undergo incorrect treatment, often moving between departments without proper diagnosis. Changing lifestyles, irregular eating habits, and rising stress levels have contributed to a sharp increase in APD cases, now affecting people across all age groups. Mistaken for ‘Gas’, condition turns severe A 42-year-old private employee ignored persistent chest burning and throat irritation for six months, assuming it to be gas. After temporary relief from over-the-counter medicines, his condition worsened. Later diagnosis confirmed APD, with inflammation already affecting his throat. Cases Across Age Groups A 28-year-old woman experienced frequent acid reflux and throat burning for months. Despite taking antacids, her condition did not improve. Tests revealed stress and irregular eating habits as key causes. Similarly, a 55-year-old patient initially treated for cold and cough was later diagnosed with Grade-3 APD, experiencing difficulty in speaking and a heavy sensation in the throat. What is APD and why it occurs APD occurs when stomach acid is either produced in excess or flows upward into the food pipe (esophagus) and throat. This leads to not just digestive issues but also throat-related symptoms such as hoarseness and irritation. Experts say the condition is closely linked to lifestyle factors like diet, sleep patterns, and stress. Stages of the disease Lifestyle changes are key to treatment Doctors stressed that APD is not a complex disease, but negligence can make it serious. Many patients rely only on medication without changing their lifestyle, which reduces treatment effectiveness. At Hamidia Hospital, several patients have improved significantly with minimal or no medication, purely through lifestyle changes. Early warning signs of APD Major causes of APD Temporary relief from medicines Doctors warn that medicines may provide only temporary relief if lifestyle habits are not corrected. The most dangerous aspect of APD is its impact on the throat. Repeated acid reflux can damage the throat lining, leading to pain, voice issues, and even ulcers in severe cases. Cases rising rapidly Five lifestyle changes that help Growing health concern Doctors warn that ignoring early symptoms as simple gas can lead to serious complications. Awareness and timely lifestyle changes remain the most effective way to prevent and manage APD.