Treat Your Heartburn

Happens when stomach acid backs up into your esophagus, the food tube, from your mouth to your stomach. The pain often rises in the chest and may radiate to the neck, throat, or angle of the jaw.

One in 10 American experiences symptoms at least once a week. More than 15 million Americans have it daily. 64 percent of sufferers are not aware that heartburn could cause serious complications if left untreated. Only 20 percent happens during the day. Vast majority of people report feeling symptoms at night. More than 50 percent of pregnant women report heartburn, especially in the third trimester. 

Heartburn Triggers and Symptoms

It has different triggers, including certain foods, medications, obesity, or even stress.

Symptoms or complications can be controlled and avoided with proper treatment and monitoring from a health care professional. Lifestyle changes and dietary changes can help, but understanding the underlying cause can help to establish a treatment plan that works.

Heartburn Prevention

Don’t go to bed with a full stomach. Have dinner 2 to 3 hours before going to bed. Reduce the size portions of your meal, or try eating 4 to 5 small meals instead of 3 large ones. And don’t rush your food. Stay away from foods and beverages like onions, peppermint, chocolate, coffee, high-fat foods etc that may trigger the symptoms. Don’t use alcohol as a way to unwind after a stressful day. Try exercise, meditation, stretching, or deep breathing instead.

Heartburn Treatment

Over-the-counter medications such as antacids, H2 receptor blockers and proton pump inhibitors relieve the pain it causes. Long-term use of proton pump inhibitors can increase the risk of fractures of the hip, wrist and spine, according to the FDA.

Anxiety and stress can worsen heartburn symptoms. So, you can consider alternative treatments like massage or music therapy. Occasional heartburn isn’t dangerous, but chronic heartburn, acid reflux or gastroesophageal reflux disease can lead to serious problems.

Seek help immediately if you experience severe chest pain, difficulty breathing, or jaw or arm pain and difficulty swallowing.