What is heartburn?
Heartburn is an uncomfortable feeling in your chest that can travel up your neck and throat. This can be a symptom of many different conditions, including acid reflux gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and even pregnancy.
If you experience heartburn, you may also have a bitter or sour taste in your throat. Heartburn can last from a few minutes to several hours. It often feels worse after you eat or when you get up too quickly after eating.
Explanation of medical terms and concept Heartburn
Heartburn could be a burning pain in your chest, simply behind your bone. The pain is usually worse once uptake, within the evening, or once lying down or bending over.
Occasional symptoms are common and no cause for alarm. Most people will manage the discomfort of symptoms on their own with way changes and over-the-counter medications.
Heartburn that's additional frequent or interferes along with your daily routine is also a symbol of an additional serious condition that needs medical aid.
Heartburn is caused by stomach acid backing up into the esophagus which produces a burning sensation in the chest and throat Indigestion occurs when food or liquid you have consumed begins to move too slowly through your digestive system In most cases heartburn can be stopped with lifestyle changes and over-the-counter medications according to MedicineNet.com If you are constipated stop eating foods that cause difficulty passing stools; these include fried foods and fatty meats You should also avoid spicy foods caffeine and alcohol because they increase acid production in your stomach Drinking milk before bedtime may help.
How common is heartburn?
Chronic heartburn is fairly common. If you have it on a regular basis and it is severe, it may be an indication of a chronic acid reflux condition called GERD. You should talk to your doctor if you frequently experience heartburn.
What does heartburn feel like?
Heartburn often feels like a burning sensation in the center of your chest. When you have heartburn, you may also experience symptoms like: -A burning feeling in the center of your chest -Nausea -Vomiting
Chest pain that can last for a few minutes or up to a couple of hours.
When you bend over or lay down, there is pain in your chest.
A burning feeling in your throat can be a sign of acid reflux.
A sour, acidic or salty taste in the back of your throat.
Difficulty swallowing.
Causes Heartburn
What causes heartburn?
To understand why you get heartburn, it is helpful to understand how your esophagus and stomach work. When you eat food, it travels down a long tube that connects your mouth and stomach. This tube is called the esophagus. At the bottom of the esophagus is a valve called the esophageal sphincter. This valve blocks food from entering your stomach if it is not supposed to enter (like when you have GERD). Your stomach opens to let food in and then closes to keep your stomach contents down. The stomach has a very strong acidic mixture that starts the process of breaking down food (digestion). The stomach is designed to hold this mixture. However, the esophagus isn't able to hold this mixture. Do not get hurt while mixing the decoupage.
Reflux can happen when the valve that separates your stomach and esophagus doesn't close properly. This causes some of the acidic mixture from your stomach to go back up your esophagus. When this happens, you might experience heartburn. There are a few things you can do to relieve the burning sensation. Some medical conditions that can cause reflux and make you feel heartburn include:
Pregnancy.
A hernia is a type of birth defect in which the stomach bulges up into the chest.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
Some medications, such as anti-inflammatory drugs and aspirin, can be harmful.
Heartburn can be caused by your eating habits and lifestyle choices. For example, how many meals you have and when you eat them, as well as the type of food you eat.
What can trigger heartburn?
Heartburn can be caused by many different things, some of which are a part of your daily life. For example, eating large portions of food, eating close to bedtime, or having high levels of stress can all cause heartburn.
Some foods and drinks can also cause heartburn for some people. Some of these foods and drinks include:
Onions.
Citrus fruits.
High-fat foods.
Tomatoes.
Tomato-based products.
Alcohol.
Citrus juices.
Caffeinated beverages.
Carbonated beverages.
Some lifestyle factors that can cause heartburn include: -Having GERD or hiatal hernia -Having certain habits, like eating a lot of spicy foods
Being overweight.
Being a smoker.
Having a high stress level.
Wearing tight clothes and belts.
Diagnosis Heartburn
To determine if your heartburn is a symptom of GERD, your doctor may recommend:
X-ray, to view the shape and condition of your esophagus and stomach.
Endoscopy, to check for abnormalities in your esophagus. A tissue sample (biopsy) may be taken for analysis.
Ambulatory acid probe tests, to identify when, and for how long, stomach acid backs up into your esophagus. An acid monitor that is placed in your esophagus connects to a small computer that you wear around your waist or on a strap over your shoulder.
Esophageal motility testing, to measure movement and pressure in your esophagus.
Treatment Heartburn
How is heartburn treated?
Most cases of heartburn can be treated at home with over-the-counter medications and changes to lifestyle habits, such as eating smaller meals more often throughout the day. If you experience occasional heartburn, it is not considered to be a serious condition. However, if you have frequent and severe heartburn, please contact your healthcare provider. Having GERD is a sign of a chronic condition. This can lead to other serious health problems, like esophagitis (a condition in which the food goes into the stomach but not down the throat), Barrett’s esophagus (a type of cancer of the digestive tract), and even cancer. Sometimes your doctor may want to do an endoscopy to check for any underlying medical conditions. An endoscopy is the examination of your digestive tract with a camera. An illuminator is a lighted instrument that is flexible.
Heartburn medications that are available over the counter typically include antacids and acid blockers.
What do antacids do to treat heartburn?
Antacids reduce the amount of stomach acid, which relieves heartburn. Some antacids also soothe stomach upset and other pains in the stomach. Some antacids include simethicone, which reduces gas. Antacids that are available over-the-counter include:
Tums®.
Rolaids®.
Maalox®.
Gaviscon®.
Always read the instructions on the package or ask your doctor about the best way to use an antacid. If you take tablets, chew them well before swallowing for faster relief.
Are there any side effects of antacids?
Some antacids contain magnesium or sodium bicarbonate. These substances can cause laxation, which can be a side effect in people with appendicitis or bowel inflammation. Other side effects of antacids may include:
Constipation.
Diarrhea.
White or pale bowel movements.
Stomach cramps.
Taking too many antacids can have serious side effects.
What are acid blockers and how do they work to treat heartburn?
Products like Pepcid AC® are histamine blockers or acid reducers. These substances reduce the production of stomach acid. They relieve heartburn, indigestion, and sour stomach. Always follow the directions on the package or speak to your healthcare provider about how to take this product. Some medications come in pill form and others come in liquid form. All medications, without exception, have an acidic component that must be blocked by the medication. There are acid blockers that you can buy without a prescription. Some of these include:
Pepcid AC®.
Tagamet HB®.
Take your pain reliever medicine as directed by your healthcare provider, even if you don't have any pain or if your symptoms improve.
Prescription acid blockers are stronger than over-the-counter acid blockers. They can be used to treat stomach ulcers, erosive esophagitis, GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease), and other conditions caused by too much stomach acid. These medications work by reducing the production of stomach acid. Your healthcare provider will give you a specific prescription for this type of acid blocker. a substance that inhibits or stops something from happening.
The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently reported that there may be a possible carcinogen called NDMA in the drugs ranitidine (Zantac®) and nizatidine (Axid®). You should speak to your healthcare provider if you are taking one of these medications.
Are there any side effects of taking acid blockers?
Acid blocker medications can have the following side effects:
Headache.
Dizziness.
Diarrhea.
If you experience any of the following possible side effects after taking an acid blocker, tell your healthcare provider right away:
Confusion.
Chest tightness.
Bleeding.
Sore throat.
Fever.
Irregular heartbeat.
Weakness or unusual fatigue.
Should I take antacids and acid blockers together to treat heartburn? No, they should not be taken together. Acid blockers neutralize the acid in your stomach, while antacids neutralize the stomach acid. Taking both medications at the same time can increase the risk of side effects.
If you are taking an acid blocker, your healthcare provider may want you to take antacids in order to control your symptoms. Antacids will stop the symptoms until the acid blocker begins to work. If your doctor prescribes an antacid, take it at least one hour before (or one hour after) you take the acid blocker.
What are prescription medications for treating heartburn?
If over-the-counter antacids and acid blockers do not help relieve your heartburn, your healthcare provider may prescribe other medicines such as:
Prescription-strength acid blockersZantac and Tagamet can relieve heartburn and treat GERD in prescription strength.
Proton pump inhibitorsThere are drugs that block acid production more effectively. Proton pump inhibitors include Aciphex®, Nexium®, Prevacid®, and Prilosec®.
Some proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) can be purchased over the counter. Talk to your healthcare provider about which PPI is right for you and how to take it.
Can I prevent heartburn?
You can often prevent and manage heartburn by changing your diet and lifestyle. This includes: eating foods that are low in acidity, avoiding spicy foods, and getting regular exercise.
Not going to bed with a full stomachYou should eat meals at least three to four hours before you go to bed. This will allow your stomach time to empty and reduce the chance of experiencing heartburn overnight.
Avoiding overeatingEating smaller portions of food during meals can help lower your risk of heartburn. You may also want to try eating four or five small meals instead of three larger ones.
Slowing downEating slowly often prevents heartburn. Put your fork down between bites, and do not eat too quickly.
Wearing loose-fitting clothesIf you wear belts and tight clothing, it might be difficult to avoid getting heartburn. By changing your wardrobe, you might be able to prevent this problem.
Avoiding certain foodsThere are foods that can cause heartburn for many people. By avoiding these foods, it may help to reduce the chance of getting heartburn in the future. You can keep a log of these foods in order to be more aware of them and also see if your healthcare provider might recommend that you avoid alcohol.
Maintaining a healthy weightIf you want to relieve heartburn, losing weight often helps.
Smoking can weaken the lower esophageal sphincter, which is a valve that separates your stomach and esophagus. Not smoking is recommended for your general health as well as the valve's strength.
Sleeping on your left side can help improve your health.This may help digestion and the removal of acid from your stomach and esophagus more quickly.
Raising the head of your bedTo relieve heartburn, place blocks or books at the head of your bed so that your head and chest are higher than your feet. Do not use piles of pillows, as this may increase pressure on your stomach and make your heartburn worse.
To avoid heartburn, exercise in a way that doesn't make your stomach hurt.Wait two hours after eating before exercising. If you exercise any sooner you may experience heartburn. Drink plenty of water before and during exercise to help with your digestion and prevent dehydration.
When to Call the Doctor
If I have heartburn, should I call my doctor?
Chronic heartburn is common, but it can sometimes lead to more serious health problems. Severe chronic heartburn has been linked to inflammation and a narrowing of the esophagus, respiratory problems, chronic cough, GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease), and Barrett's esophagus, which may lead to esophageal cancer.
You should contact your doctor if:
Your heartburn won’t go away.
When you experience heartburn symptoms, they become more severe or frequent.
Swallowing can be difficult or painful.
Your heartburn causes you to vomit.
You have lost a lot of weight in a short amount of time.
If you take over-the-counter antacids for more than two weeks, you will still have heartburn symptoms.
Even though you take prescription medicines to relieve your heartburn symptoms, you still have them.
You have serious hoarseness or wheezing.
Your pain is preventing you from living your normal life or doing your usual things.
Will heartburn go away on its own?
Heartburn is common for many people. By watching what you eat and avoiding certain factors (diet and lifestyle habits) you may be able to prevent or manage it. If you experience heartburn often and it seems to be getting worse, it may be a sign of a health problem. If you have heartburn, it will not go away on its own. You should talk to your healthcare provider about how to best treat your condition.
Resources
Where can I learn more about heartburn?
The American Cancer Society provides information on cancer.
The American College of Gastroenterology provides information about gastroenterology.
The American Gastroenterological Association is a medical organization that specializes in gastrointestinal diseases.
The American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy is a website about gastroenterology.
The Gastro-Intestinal Research Foundation is a website that provides information about gastrointestinal research.
The International Foundation for Gastrointestinal Disorders is a website that provides information about gastrointestinal disorders.
The National Cancer Institute provides information about cancer.
The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases provides information about diabetes and digestive diseases.
General summary
Home Remedies If you are one of the millions who experience heartburn daily home remedies for heartburn are not only helpful but can make a significant difference in reducing heartburn symptoms You see when you experience heartburn (also known as acid indigestion) your stomach produces more acid than normal to fight with the food that is stuck further down in your esophagus Unfortunately this extra acid causes irritation and tissue damage which leads to painful burning sensation However there are easy ways to get rid of those symptoms without spending too much money or time!.
and GERD When acid reflux develops as a result of stomach juices mixing with the food that is caught in your esophagus it is called heartburn This can be caused by eating certain foods or bending over after you eat Heartburn can also be triggered by obesity pregnancy and the use of alcohol chocolate or caffeine There are several steps you can take to get rid of this condition before it becomes even worse and requires medical attention: Make sure you do not lie down or bend over immediately after eating – Wait at least two hours after finishing your meal before lying down and three hours if you sit up right after.
What kills heartburn quickly?
Heartburn also called acid reflux is one of the most common health concerns – especially for people who suffer from frequent or chronic heartburn Heartburn happens when your stomach contents flow back up into your throat causing a burning sensation Medications such as H2 blockers and proton pump inhibitors can help reduce the severity of heartburn and its symptoms But in the meantime there are many natural remedies that you can use to get relief from heartburn quickly Among them is a glass of milk with heavy cream: The fatty acids within heavy cream neutralize hydrochloric acid to give you fast-acting relief Other foods.
How can I treat heartburn at home?
Treatment for heartburn at home consists primarily of lifestyle and dietary changes Depending on the severity of your symptoms you may be able to make the necessary adjustments yourself with the help of a physician or health-care provider Step 1: Eat a Low-Fat Diet If you frequently experience heartburn after eating fatty foods try cutting back on your consumption of them A low-fat diet also can help reduce weight which is thought to aggravate GERD by pushing stomach acids up into the esophagus when there's less room in the stomach to contain them Your doctor might advise eliminating high-fat foods.
What naturally kills heartburn?
The most natural remedy for heartburn is to relieve the pressure in the stomach While antacids can provide relief on the spot they don't address the underlying problem If you want to avoid eating food that triggers heartburn or if you have already taken an antacid only to find yourself with heartburn again a few hours later try these tips.
What food helps heartburn go away?
If you have heartburn avoid acidic and spicy foods as well as carbonated beverages While you’re at it steer clear of alcohol chocolate and caffeine Instead choose foods that help heartburn go away Eat small meals instead of large ones to minimize the risk of indigestion Choose foods rich in calcium and magnesium if you’re prone to having GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) another cause for heartburn Boost your immunity by eating more garlic or curry powder; these foods contain antioxidants that may reduce inflammation in the lining of the stomach and esophagus.
Does water help acid reflux?
This is due to the fact that water can help you feel fuller so you will eat less. In addition alcohol actually relaxes spasms in your esophagus and stomach which are two of the main symptoms of acid reflux disease.
How do you sleep with heartburn?
Heartburn can be a real pain literally Here are some tips to help you get better sleep when your heartburn is keeping you awake 1. Eat breakfast every day If you wait until noon to eat your first meal skip the heavy morning foods like bacon and eggs and go for a light cereal or low-fat yogurt instead. This will keep your stomach from producing too much acid during the night since food takes time to digest.
Is tea good for heartburn?
Caffeinated drinks such as coffee tea and cola are often the culprits behind heartburn Caffeine is a stimulant that relaxes your lower esophageal sphincter or LES which allows stomach acid to leak upward into your esophagus Green tea contains less caffeine than black tea or coffee You can drink green It might help protect against heartburn but it's best not to drink both green and black tea at the same time if you suffer from heartburn symptoms.