Heartburn is a painful burning feeling in chest or throat. It happens when stomach acid backs up into esophagus, the tube that carries food from mouth to stomach. The pain is often worse after eating, in the evening, or when lying down or bending over.
Occasional heartburn is common and no cause for alarm. Most people can manage the discomfort of heartburn on their own with lifestyle changes and over-the-counter medications.
Heartburn that is more frequent or interferes with daily routine may be a symptom of a more serious condition that requires medical care.
SymptomsSymptoms of heartburn include:
• A burning pain in the chest that usually occurs after eating and may occur at night
• Pain that worsens when lying down or bending over
• Bitter or acidic taste in the mouth
Make an appointment with your doctor if:• Heartburn occurs more than twice a week
• Symptoms persist despite use of over-the-counter medications
• You have difficulty swallowing
• You have persistent nausea or vomiting
• You have weight loss because of poor appetite or difficulty eating
Risk factorsCertain foods and drinks can trigger heartburn in some people, including:
• Spicy foods
• Onions
• Citrus products
• Tomato products, such as ketchup
• Fatty or fried foods
• Peppermint
• Chocolate
• Alcohol, carbonated beverages, coffee or other caffeinated beverages
• Large or fatty meals
Being overweight or pregnant also can increase the risk of experiencing heartburn.
ComplicationsHeartburn that occurs frequently and interferes with routine is considered gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). GERD treatment may require prescription medications and, occasionally, surgery or other procedures. GERD can seriously damage esophagus or lead to precancerous changes in the esophagus called Barrett's esophagus.
Lifestyle changes can help ease heartburn:• Maintain a healthy weight. Excess pounds put pressure on your abdomen, pushing up your stomach and causing acid to back up into your esophagus.
• Avoid tight fitting clothing, which puts pressure on your abdomen and the lower esophageal sphincter.
• Avoid foods that trigger your heartburn.
• Avoid lying down after a meal. Wait at least three hours.
• Avoid late meals.
• Elevate the head of your bed (or use two or three pillows) to allow gravity to keep acid in the stomach and avoid acid reflux if you regularly experience heartburn at night or while trying to sleep.
• Avoid smoking and alcohol. Both smoking and drinking alcohol decrease the lower esophageal sphincter's ability to function properly.
• Avoid large meals. Instead eat more frequent meals throughout the day.
Source: Medline Plus & Mayo Clinic
