UI Faculty of Medicine Professor Offers Tips to Prevent GERD Flare-Ups During Lebaran Mudik

Jakarta — CNBC Indonesia reports that people with a history of gastric conditions such as Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), gastritis (maag), or related ailments are urged to be more careful when undertaking Lebaran mudik. The long journeys, irregular eating patterns, and stress from traffic congestion can trigger flare-ups of symptoms.

Professor Dr. dr. Ari Fahrial Syam, a Professor of Internal Medicine and Consultant Gastroenterology–Hepatology at the Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, and a physician at Primaya Hospital Kelapa Gading, reminded people with a history of gastric illness to prepare well for the mudik journey. He said mudik travellers should avoid travelling on an empty stomach as this can trigger an increase in stomach acid.

‘If you want to continue mudik, do it at night, i.e., not during fasting. Because in the daytime energy is depleted,’ Ari said at a media briefing with Primaya Hospital in Jakarta, on Thursday (5 March 2026).

He also recommended mudik travellers bring food from home to ensure quality and hygiene are better than food purchased on the journey. In addition, travellers should prepare for the potential for traffic jams, which can provoke stress during the trip. Activities such as using a gadget or other entertainment can help reduce stress during long journeys.

‘And you must be prepared for the traffic. Your gadget or a powerbank ensures there is activity and reduces stress,’ he added.

Ari added that travellers with a history of gastric disturbances should also carry personal medicines, at minimum acid-neutralising drugs, to anticipate symptoms during the journey. If these precautions are not taken, it is predicted that the mudik travellers’ conditions will worsen.

Moreover, after Lebaran a number of illnesses often relapse due to uncontrolled eating during the festive period. Many people who had previously maintained diet habits end up ‘taking revenge’ and overindulging. This includes chocolate, cheese, and dishes containing coconut milk, which can trigger stomach disorders such as gastritis or GERD.

This situation typically leads to increased hospital visits in several regions during the first week after Lebaran, as many people remain in their hometown after completing mudik travel.

It is important to note that GERD is usually characterised by symptoms such as a burning sensation in the chest (heartburn), chest pain, and a bitter taste in the mouth. The condition can be more severe among those with risk factors such as age over 40, smoking, and a body mass index above 30, which falls into the obesity category.