Heartburn
Heartburn is a burning sensation in the chest, just behind the breastbone, that often occurs after eating or at night. It is caused by stomach acid rising back up into the esophagus, the tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach. Occasional heartburn is common and can usually be managed with lifestyle changes and over-the-counter medications. However, frequent or severe heartburn may indicate a more serious condition such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). If you experience persistent heartburn, contact Digestive System Healthcare to consult with our specialists.
What are the causes of heartburn?
Heartburn can be triggered by various factors, including:
- Dietary habits:
- Eating large meals or lying down right after a meal
- Consuming certain foods and drinks, such as fatty or spicy foods, chocolate, caffeine, alcohol, and citrus fruits
- Lifestyle factors:
- Smoking
- Obesity or being overweight
- Stress and lack of sleep
- Medical conditions:
- GERD
- Hiatal hernia
- Pregnancy
- Delayed stomach emptying (gastroparesis)
- Medications:
- Certain pain relievers, muscle relaxers, and blood pressure medication
What are the symptoms of heartburn?
Managing heartburn often involves lifestyle changes and over-the-counter medications. Some effective strategies include:
- Adjusting your diet:
- Avoid trigger foods and drinks.
- Eat smaller, more frequent meals.
- Avoid eating within two to three hours before bedtime.
- Improving your lifestyle:
- Maintain a healthy weight.
- Elevate the head of your bed by six to eight inches.
- Avoid smoking and reduce alcohol consumption.
- Manage stress through relaxation techniques such as yoga or meditation.
- Using over-the-counter medications:
- Antacids to neutralize stomach acid.
- H2 blockers to reduce acid production.
- Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) for more severe heartburn.
When should you seek medical help for heartburn?
