How to Help Heartburn

Heartburn does not really affect the heart. It is a very common problem in the digestive system which is experienced by more than fifteen million Americans daily. Heartburn happens when the stomach acid is regurgitated up through the stomach opening and enters the esophagus. This can cause a burning sensation in the chest, pain in the abdomen, and a sour taste in the mouth. Heartburn can happen to anyone, especially those who are overweight, smoke, eat late in the evening, bend frequently during the day, or suffer from peptic ulcer or hiatal hernia. Many women find themselves with heartburn during their pregnancy. One of the biggest culprits of heartburn are certain foods that people eat. Some foods that can cause heartburn are: coffee, alcohol, juices, tomatoes, citrus fruits, fatty foods, chocolate, onions, vinegar, garlic, fried foods, and pepper. However, even people that eat a bland diet and are in good shape still suffer from heartburn. That may be because of their espophageal sphincter, which is the muscle in between the stomach and the esophagus. If this muscle isn't strong or working properly, it can cause heartburn.

If not avoid or properly treatment, heartburn can cause daily discomfort and frequent trips to the doctor. Continual heartburn may become a condition called GERD (gastrophageal reflux disease) or lead to more serious health problems like cancer of the esophagus. Some of most effective ways to prevent heartburn can be done through lifestyle changes. People prone to heartburn should maintain a normal weight because additional pounds can both push up the stomach and its acid into the esophagus. Anyone who regularly gets heartburn should avoid trigger foods and eat smaller quantities at each meal. They should wait a minimum of three hours after eating before lying down and then keep their head elevated. Elevating the head helps keep acid down in the stomach and prevents it from backing up into the throat. Another helpful tip is to wear loose-fitting clothing. Tight material around the waist can apply pressure to the lower esophagus and aggravate a heartburn condition.

When heartburn does happen, there is very effective medication which can help. Some antacids can be purchased over the counter or less expensively through an online pharmacy such as www.pacificonlinepharmacy.com. They act as a neutralizer of stomach acid and bring about temporary relief. Stronger treatments for heartburn reduce the amount of acid manufactured in the stomach such as Pepcid, or Ranitidine (ZANTAC®). Other gastrointestinal medications which treat gastric reflux and symptoms of heartburn may be prescribed by a doctor such as Reglan (or Maxolon®) which helps the body better digest food. Cisapride (Propulsid®) has also helped some people control their heartburn by better enabling the body's rate of digestion and strengthening the esophageal sphincter. There are also surgical options for some heartburn patients, depending on the specific cause of their heartburn and the chronic nature of the condition. Heartburn is a common ailment. However, it may be prevented through diet and behavior modifications and treated effectively with medication. It is important to be proactive and not ignore the condition so it doesn't later cause serious health problems.