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Digestive Health6 Minute Read

Answering Your Frequently Asked Questions About Heartburn

heartburn
Reviewed By: Dr. Mark Shachner
Published: Thursday Oct. 5, 2023
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Heartburn can often leave you with a flurry of questions and concerns. It's not just the discomfort but the uncertainty that can be truly unsettling. In this blog post, we will aim to address some of the most common questions about heartburn, providing you with the clarity and reassurance you need. You're not alone in this journey, and we're committed to providing reliable, easy-to-understand answers to help guide you through. So let's dive in and start unraveling the mystery that is heartburn.

What causes heartburn?

Heartburn is caused primarily by stomach acid refluxing into the esophagus, creating a burning sensation often felt in the middle of your chest, behind the breastbone. The culprit is a muscle called the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), located where the esophagus meets the stomach. Under normal circumstances, the LES acts as a one-way valve, allowing food to enter the stomach but preventing stomach acids from refluxing back into the esophagus. However, when the LES is weak or relaxes inappropriately, stomach acid can flow back up into the esophagus, causing heartburn. Factors contributing to this can include certain foods, medications, obesity, or laying down too soon after eating.

What are the symptoms of heartburn? 

Now that we understand the cause of heartburn, let's take a closer look at its common symptoms. The primary symptom of heartburn is an uncomfortable burning sensation in the chest, usually behind the breastbone. This sensation often radiates upwards towards the neck and throat. Some people describe it as feeling like food is coming back into the mouth, and may even experience an acidic or bitter taste. Other potential symptoms include difficulty swallowing, a feeling of a lump in the throat, or a chronic cough. It's important to note that symptoms can vary from person to person and may occur differently depending on factors such as body position (lying down or bending over) or time (such as during the night). Remember, if you're experiencing symptoms of heartburn frequently or they are causing you significant discomfort, it's crucial to consult with a medical professional.

Is acid reflux heartburn?

Yes and no. While the terms 'acid reflux' and 'heartburn' are often used interchangeably, they represent two different phenomena. Acid reflux is a physical event that happens when stomach acid flows backward up into your esophagus. This reflux can cause a variety of symptoms, one of which is heartburn. Heartburn, on the other hand, is a symptom of acid reflux. It refers to the distinct burning sensation felt in the chest, often behind the breastbone, as a result of acid reflux. So, while all heartburn is an outcome of acid reflux, not all instances of acid reflux result in heartburn. Some people with acid reflux may experience other symptoms like regurgitation, coughing, or a sour taste in the mouth. It's important to keep in mind that ongoing, frequent instances of acid reflux can lead to a more serious condition called gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). If you are experiencing frequent episodes of acid reflux or heartburn, we highly encourage you to discuss these symptoms with a healthcare provider.

What is GERD?

GERD, or Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease, is a more chronic and severe form of acid reflux that causes frequent heartburn. It occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) weakens or relaxes inappropriately, allowing stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus more frequently than normal. This constant backwash of acid can irritate and inflame the lining of the esophagus, leading to uncomfortable and potentially serious complications if left untreated. Symptoms of GERD include persistent heartburn, regurgitation of food or sour liquid, difficulty swallowing, coughing, and chest pain, especially at night. Please know that if you're experiencing these symptoms regularly, there's no need to suffer in silence. Your doctor can provide a diagnosis and help create an effective treatment plan for managing GERD.

How is heartburn treated?>

Heartburn can be treated through a combination of lifestyle changes, over-the-counter medications, and, in some severe cases, prescription medications or surgery. It's important to remember that the best treatment may vary based on your personal health status and the frequency of your heartburn, so always consult with a healthcare provider before taking any new medications. Lifestyle changes can include eating smaller, more frequent meals, avoiding foods that trigger heartburn, quitting smoking, and elevating the head of your bed. Over-the-counter medications such as antacids or H2 blockers can provide temporary relief from symptoms, while prescription medications like proton pump inhibitors can reduce acid production in the stomach. For severe cases of GERD, surgery may be recommended to strengthen the LES or prevent acid reflux altogether. Ultimately, the best treatment for heartburn is a personalized approach that addresses your unique symptoms and triggers.

Why do I get heartburn every time I eat?

Experiencing heartburn every time you eat might be related to the type of food you're consuming or how you're eating it. Certain foods are known to trigger heartburn because they can relax the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), which makes it easier for stomach acid to reflux into the esophagus. Common food triggers include fried or fatty foods, spicy foods, citrus, and caffeine. Large meals can also be a problem, as they cause the stomach to produce more acid and can also physically distend the stomach, leading to LES relaxation. Eating too quickly or while stressed can also exacerbate heartburn symptoms. Furthermore, lying down or going to bed shortly after eating can encourage acid reflux due to the effect of gravity no longer keeping the stomach contents down. If you're regularly experiencing heartburn after eating, try to identify any patterns related to the type of food or the way you're eating. Keeping a food diary can be helpful in identifying these patterns. However, if heartburn continues to be a regular problem, it's important to consult with a healthcare provider. They can help identify the root cause and develop an effective treatment plan.

Is it normal to have heartburn while pregnant?

Yes, it is quite common to experience heartburn during pregnancy, including the early stages. This is due to hormonal changes that cause the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), the muscle that normally prevents stomach acids from backing up into the esophagus, to relax. When the LES relaxes, it can allow stomach acid to reflux into the esophagus, causing the discomfort known as heartburn. As the pregnancy progresses, the growing baby can also put pressure on the stomach, which can exacerbate heartburn. If you're pregnant and experiencing heartburn or other discomforts, please know that there are safe and effective measures that can be taken to manage these symptoms. Always consult with your healthcare provider for guidance tailored to your unique condition and stage of pregnancy.

How to stop heartburn during pregnancy?

While heartburn during pregnancy is quite common, there are several strategies you can employ to help minimize its occurrence and severity. Firstly, try eating smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day instead of three large ones. This helps to avoid overloading your stomach and causing acid to reflux into your esophagus. Avoiding trigger foods such as spicy or fatty foods, caffeine, and chocolate can also help since they can relax the lower esophageal sphincter, allowing stomach acid to reflux. Drinking plenty of water can help dilute stomach acids and reduce heartburn, but be careful not to drink large amounts during meals, as this can also increase heartburn. It's also beneficial to wait at least an hour after eating before lying down to give your body time to digest and lessen the chance of reflux. Elevating the head of your bed or sleeping propped up on pillows can also help prevent acid from backing up into your esophagus while you sleep. Lastly, wearing loose-fitting clothing can reduce pressure on your abdomen and lower the esophageal sphincter. Remember, it's important to consult with your healthcare provider before trying any new treatment or if your symptoms persist or worsen.

When should you visit a heartburn center?

If your heartburn symptoms persist despite lifestyle changes and over-the-counter medications, it may be time to visit a heartburn center. Other indications that you should seek professional help include heartburn symptoms that occur more than twice a week, symptoms that persist after taking prescription medication, difficulty swallowing, unexplained weight loss, or if you're experiencing severe chest pain, especially if accompanied by shortness of breath, jaw or arm pain, or radiation to your back. These could be symptoms of a heart condition and require immediate medical attention. A heartburn center can provide comprehensive care, including a precise diagnosis and a personalized treatment plan. Remember, living with frequent, uncomfortable heartburn isn't something you have to endure. Help is available, and it starts with reaching out to a specialized heartburn center or your healthcare provider.

Key Takeaways

In conclusion, heartburn is a common but uncomfortable condition that can significantly impact your quality of life. However, understanding its causes and symptoms, along with the various treatment options available, can empower you to manage it effectively. While occasional heartburn is usually manageable with lifestyle changes and over-the-counter remedies, frequent or severe heartburn requires medical attention. Keep in mind that you're not alone in your journey towards better health, and professional help is available. Don't hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider or a specialized heartburn center if you're struggling with heartburn. Above all, remember that your health is worth taking seriously and that every step you take towards understanding and managing your heartburn is a step towards a more comfortable, healthier life.

Broward Health, providing service for more than 85 years, is a nationally recognized system in South Florida that offers world-class healthcare to all. The Broward Health system includes the statutory teaching hospital Broward Health Medical Center, Broward Health North, Broward Health Imperial Point, Broward Health Coral Springs, Salah Foundation Children’s Hospital, Broward Health Weston, Broward HealthPoint, Broward Health Physician Group, Broward Health Urgent Care, Broward Health International, and Broward Health Foundation. For more information, visit BrowardHealth.org.