Heartburn is common. In fact, about 60 million Americans have it once a month. And millions experience it daily.
Heartburn is characterized by burning pain in the chest area behind the breastbone. It may accompany a bitter or sour taste in the back of the throat. Heartburn may worsen after eating, at night, or when lying down and may last minutes to hours.
Occasional heartburn is common and can typically be self-managed by lifestyle changes and non-prescription medications. However, frequent, or severe heartburn may require medical care.
Heartburn, though common, isn’t just a normal part of life to accept. But why does it happen to so many people?
Heartburn is a common symptom of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Approximately 1 in 5 people experience GERD. People with GERD often have symptoms more than twice a week. Other symptoms of GERD include vomiting, difficulty swallowing, coughing, wheezing, and chest pain.
People with other medical conditions, such as acid reflux and hiatal hernia, may experience heartburn. Acid reflux is the stomach acid backflow into the esophagus. Hiatal hernia, also called stomach hernia, happens when the stomach pushes up through the muscle that separates the chest and abdomen. Both acid reflux and hiatal hernia may progress to GERD.
The Standard American Diet (SAD) typically includes more foods and drinks that trigger heartburn and fewer that prevent it. Foods and drinks that can trigger heartburn include:
Foods that can help prevent heartburn include whole grains, root vegetables, and green vegetables. Non-citrus fruits, ginger, and low-fat milk may also help prevent heartburn.
Unfortunately, more than half of Americans struggle with being overweight or obese. Being at a higher weight increases the risk of developing heartburn-related medical conditions. Obesity and excess belly fat put pressure on the stomach, which can cause conditions like GERD and hiatal hernia. One of the most effective, yet challenging, lifestyle interventions for reducing symptoms is weight loss.
There are many online resources available to help with weight loss, as well as in-person help.
Some lifestyle choices can cause heartburn and contribute to medical conditions that produce it. These habits include smoking, being stressed, overeating, and wearing clothes and belts that are too tight. To alleviate heartburn symptoms, it can help to make the following lifestyle changes:
Certain medications and dietary supplements can cause or worsen heartburn. Many people need to take them for various health conditions, but they can lead to chronic heartburn symptoms. Examples of these medicines include:
People who need to take these medications and supplements should talk to their doctor about ways to manage their heartburn symptoms.
People with chronic or severe heartburn symptoms should consult their doctor if they have:
Don’t keep experiencing nagging heartburn symptoms – schedule an appointment today!
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