Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor Shaktikanta Das has been admitted to a hospital in Chennai. Reports quoted sources as saying he was hospitalized due to hyperacidity.
The 67-year-old Odisha, born Shaktikanta Das, is the 25th Governor of the Reserve Bank of India.
A spokesperson of the Reserve Bank of India said, “Shri Shaktikanta Das, Governor of the Reserve Bank of India, suffered from gastric acidosis and was admitted to Apollo Hospital in Chennai for observation.”
“He is doing well now and will be discharged from hospital in the next 2-3 hours. There is no reason to worry,” an RBI spokesperson said.
Acidity, or acid reflux, occurs when stomach acid backs up into the esophagus, causing symptoms such as heartburn, nausea, and bloating. While this is a common condition that can usually be controlled with lifestyle changes and over-the-counter medications, severe or chronic cases sometimes result in hospitalization.
Hospitalization may be needed if the acid causes complications, such as severe chest pain (which may be mistaken for a heart attack), difficulty swallowing, or persistent vomiting (which may lead to dehydration). These symptoms may indicate a more serious underlying problem, such as gastroesophageal reflux, esophageal ulcers, or strictures.
Mild acidity is usually harmless, but recurring or severe acidity episodes should not be ignored. Early medical consultation and lifestyle changes, such as avoiding trigger foods, stress management, and proper weight, can prevent complications and reduce the number of doctor visits.
Acidity-related chest pain, also known as acid reflux, is often described as a burning sensation in the chest, often called heartburn. It usually starts after eating, worsens when lying down, and is sometimes associated with a sour taste in the mouth or acid reflux.
Unlike heart-related chest pain, acidity-related discomfort does not radiate to the arms, neck, or jaw. Symptoms usually improve with antacids or when the person sits upright. However, distinguishing between acidity and heart-related conditions can be difficult. Therefore, persistent or severe chest pain should be evaluated by a physician.
