What Is Heartburn?

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Dr. Nancy Qusba Emergency Physician Downers Grove, IL

Dr. Nancy Qusba M.D. is a top Emergency Physician in Downers Grove, IL. With a passion for the field and an unwavering commitment to their specialty, Dr. Nancy Qusba M.D. is an expert in changing the lives of their patients for the better. Through their designated cause and expertise in the field, Dr. Nancy Qusba M.D. is... more

How Does Heartburn Happen?

Heartburn (Gerd) actually happens when your stomach acid flows back into your food pipe. This causes an uncomfortable burning feeling in your chest that can move up to your neck and throat. The stomach acid flows into the lower end of the food pipe. This is associated with an increase in the production of acid in the stomach. If acid reflux is occuring more than twice a week, then it is gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). 

Symptoms Of Heartburn

The most prominent symptoms of heartburn are:

  1. Burning sensation usually localized to the lower mid chest or around the upper mid abdomen, sometimes upper back.
  2. Stomach contents may sometimes reach the mouth causing an acid taste in the mouth, sore throat, hoarseness, and cough.
  3. Stomach contents can trickle into the lungs, causing intermittent cough, and wheezing.
  4. Difficulty swallowing may even lead to esophageal bleeding, which is usually minor but can sometimes be massive.
  5. It may result in the progressive narrowing at the lower end of the food pipe, making swallowing hard for solid foods.
  6. Permanent damage called Barrett's esophagus could be caused, which is a serious complication.

Tips To Prevent Heartburn

Most ways to prevent heartburn work for the prevention of other diseases as well. Here are some ways to prevent heartburn: 

  1. Lose excessive weight.
  2. Avoid fast foods. 
  3. Avoid tomato, orange or lemon juice.
  4. Avoid caffeinated coffee or tea, and carbonated beverages. 
  5. Avoid Alcohol.
  6. Avoid Aspirin and Ansaids like Naprosyn, Motrin, prednisone.
  7. Avoid tobacco, smoking or tobacco chewing.
  8. Eat small portions of food. 
  9. Eat 2 -3 hours before bed.
  10. Elevate head during sleep.
  11. Avoid tight belts.
  12. Low calcium intake.
  13. Avoid prednisolone, antihistamines, and tricyclic antidepressants.