Heartburn

Heartburn is a burning sensation in the chest or throat that is caused by acid reflux. Acid reflux occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, the tube that connects the mouth to the stomach. If it persists, the condition is referred to as Gastro-oesophageal Reflux Disease (GORD).

Symptoms

The symptoms of heartburn include:

• A burning sensation in the chest, often behind the breastbone or in the middle of the chest
• A sour or bitter taste in the mouth, caused by stomach acid
• Chest pain, especially after eating or lying down
• Difficulty swallowing
• Hoarseness, especially in the morning
• A chronic cough or wheezing
• Regurgitation of food or sour liquid (acid reflux)
• A sore throat or hoarseness
• A feeling like a lump is stuck in the throat These symptoms can be accompanied by other symptoms such as nausea, bloating and belching.

What causes heartburn?

Heartburn is often caused by the reflux of stomach acid into the esophagus. This can happen when the muscle at the end of the esophagus, called the lower esophageal sphincter, does not close properly. This allows stomach acid to leak back into the esophagus, causing irritation and the burning sensation known as heartburn.

Other causes of heartburn can include:

• Eating certain foods or drinking certain beverages, such as spicy foods, citrus fruits, or caffeine.
• Being overweight or obese.
• Pregnancy, as the growing uterus puts pressure on the stomach.
• Certain medications, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), aspirin, and certain antidepressants.
• Hiatal hernia, a condition in which the upper part of the stomach pushes up through the diaphragm into the chest.
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a chronic and more serious form of acid reflux.

It is important to note that not all chest discomfort is caused by heartburn, hence if you have chest pain, it is important to see a doctor to rule out other possible causes such as a heart attack.

What does heartburn feel like?

Heartburn typically causes a burning sensation in the chest, often behind the breastbone or in the middle of the chest. It can also feel like a burning sensation in the throat. Some people may also experience a sour or bitter taste in their mouth. The discomfort from heartburn can range from mild to severe, and it may be worse after eating or when lying down. It is important to note that chest pain can be a symptom of other serious conditions such as a heart attack, so it is important to see a doctor if you are experiencing chest pain.

How is heartburn diagnosed?

Heartburn is typically diagnosed through a combination of a physical examination, patient history, and tests. The specific tests used to diagnose heartburn may vary depending on the patient’s symptoms and medical history, but some common diagnostic methods include:

• Physical examination: A healthcare provider will perform a physical examination and ask about the patient’s symptoms, such as the frequency and severity of heartburn.
• Patient history: The healthcare provider will also ask about the patient’s medical history, including any previous diagnoses or treatments for acid reflux or GERD.
• Upper endoscopy: This procedure involves inserting a thin, flexible tube with a camera on the end through the patient’s mouth and into the esophagus to examine the lining for any signs of damage or inflammation.
• pH monitoring: This test measures the amount of acid in the esophagus by attaching a small sensor to the patient’s esophagus for 24 hours.
• Barium swallow or Esophagram: This test uses X-ray to examine the esophagus and stomach to detect any abnormalities that might be causing the heartburn.
• Esophageal manometry: This test measures the strength and function of the esophagus muscle.

It is important to note that the diagnosis of heartburn may involve a combination of the above-mentioned test and it’s best to consult with a healthcare provider or doctor to receive proper diagnosis and treatment.

How to get rid of heartburn

There are several ways to alleviate heartburn and reduce the frequency of symptoms:

• Change your diet: Avoid foods and drinks that can trigger heartburn, such as spicy foods, citrus fruits, chocolate, caffeine, and alcohol. Eating smaller, more frequent meals can also help, as can avoiding eating close to bedtime.
• Lose weight: Extra weight can put pressure on the stomach and cause acid to reflux into the esophagus. Losing weight can help to reduce the frequency of heartburn.
• Quit smoking: Smoking can weaken the lower esophageal sphincter and make acid reflux worse.
• Elevate the head of your bed: Placing blocks or a wedge under the head of your bed can help to keep stomach acid in the stomach, rather than allowing it to flow into the esophagus.
• Wear loose-fitting clothes: Wearing tight-fitting clothes can put pressure on the stomach and worsen heartburn.
• Take over-the-counter antacids: Antacids can neutralize stomach acid and provide immediate relief.
• Try acid suppressors: H2 blockers and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) can reduce the amount of acid produced by the stomach and provide relief for more persistent symptoms.

It’s important to consult a doctor if you experience persistent or severe heartburn, as it could be a symptom of a more serious condition such as Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

Home remedies for heartburn

There are several home remedies that may help to alleviate the symptoms of heartburn:

• Chew gum: Chewing gum can increase saliva production, which can neutralize stomach acid.
• Avoid certain foods: Certain foods and drinks can trigger heartburn, such as spicy foods, fried foods, citrus fruits, chocolate, and caffeine.
• Eat smaller, more frequent meals: Eating large meals can put pressure on the stomach, which can cause acid to reflux into the esophagus. Eating smaller, more frequent meals can help to alleviate this pressure.
• Avoid lying down after eating: Lying down after eating can allow stomach acid to more easily flow into the esophagus. It is best to wait at least two to three hours after eating before lying down.
• Raise the head of your bed: Raising the head of the bed can help to keep stomach acid in the stomach while you sleep.
• Wear loose-fitting clothes: Tight-fitting clothes can put pressure on the stomach, which can cause acid to reflux into the esophagus.
• Eat a spoonful of honey or ginger: Both honey and ginger have natural anti-inflammatory properties that can help to soothe the esophagus and reduce heartburn.
• Use over-the-counter antacids: Antacids can neutralize stomach acid and provide quick relief from heartburn symptoms.

It is important to note that these home remedies may not work for everyone and it’s best to consult with a healthcare provider or doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.

What are the complications associated with heartburn?

Heartburn can lead to several complications if left untreated:

• Esophagitis: This is inflammation of the lining of the esophagus caused by stomach acid exposure.
• Barrett’s esophagus: This is a condition in which the cells in the lining of the esophagus change and become abnormal, which increases the risk of esophageal cancer.
• Esophageal strictures: Repeated exposure of stomach acid to the esophagus can cause scarring and narrowing of the esophagus, making it difficult to swallow.
• Respiratory problems: Stomach acid can also reflux into the throat and lungs, causing problems such as chronic cough, asthma, and pneumonia.
• Tooth erosion: Stomach acid can also damage the teeth, leading to tooth erosion and cavities.
• Laryngitis: Stomach acid can reflux into the voice box, causing hoarseness, sore throat and laryngitis.

It’s important to note that these complications can be prevented or treated with proper management of the underlying condition, such as GERD. Consult with a doctor or healthcare provider to receive proper diagnosis and treatment of heartburn.

FAQs

Does milk help heartburn?

Milk is often thought to help alleviate heartburn symptoms because it can neutralize stomach acid. However, it is important to note that milk is also a rich source of fat and can stimulate acid production in the stomach, which may actually worsen heartburn symptoms. For some people, a glass of cold milk can help to alleviate heartburn symptoms. But for others, it can worsen the symptoms. It’s best to pay attention to your body and see how it reacts to milk, and consult with a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment of heartburn.

It’s worth mentioning that if you are lactose intolerant, consuming milk and dairy products can lead to gas, bloating and stomach discomfort. In this case, using lactose-free milk or taking lactase supplements before consuming milk products would be helpful. It’s also important to note that while milk may provide temporary relief, it is not a long-term solution for treating acid reflux or GERD. A doctor or healthcare provider can help determine the underlying cause of heartburn and recommend appropriate treatment options.

Is heartburn a sign of pregnancy?

Heartburn is a common symptom experienced by many women during pregnancy. During pregnancy, the hormone progesterone relaxes the muscles in the body, including the muscles in the digestive tract. This relaxation can cause stomach acid to leak back into the esophagus, leading to heartburn symptoms. Additionally, the growing uterus can put pressure on the stomach and exacerbate heartburn.

However, it is important to note that heartburn is not a definitive sign of pregnancy, and it can also be caused by other factors such as certain foods, medications, or underlying medical conditions. Other symptoms of pregnancy include fatigue, nausea, and frequent urination. If you suspect that you might be pregnant and experiencing heartburn it’s best to take a pregnancy test and consult with a doctor or your healthcare provider for proper diagnosis.