Heartburn

What is heartburn?

Heartburn is a burning sensation, often felt in the center of the chest, caused by stomach acid flowing backwards into the lower portion of the esophagus. The symptoms include a burning sensation in the chest and into the throat, an acid taste in the mouth, the feeling that food or liquid is coming up the throat, and/or an increase in the intensity of pain if one bends over or lies down. Heartburn is also called “reflux.”

What causes heartburn?

Heartburn is caused when stomach acid irritates the esophagus. Stomach acid contains hydrochloric acid to help breakdown food during digestion. Our stomach is protected from irritation by this strong substance, but the esophagus can become irritated by the acid. Usually this occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), the valve that separates the esophagus from the stomach, is relaxed or not working properly. Food should flow downwards, but not back up into the esophagus. Peppermint, caffeine, alcohol, fatty foods, and chocolate can cause the LES to relax. People that smoke, are obese, have a hiatal hernia, or are pregnant are at a higher risk for having heartburn. Stress can worsen heartburn.

How can I prevent heartburn?

There are several lifestyle changes that can reduce the risk or incidence of heartburn.

Avoid citrus fruit, tomato-based products, raw onions, high fat foods, and spicy foods.

Avoid alcohol, coffee, citrus juices, carbonated and alcoholic beverages.

Do not eat right before bedtime

Eat smaller sized meals.

Try propping your head with pillows, if you get heartburn at night,.

Exercise and eat a healthy diet to maintain a healthy weight.

If you smoke, quit. (call Student Health for information to help you quit).

Is heartburn harmful?

Severe or persistent heartburn may be a symptom of a more serious condition called gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Untreated GERD increases a person’s risk for ulcers of the esophagus, asthma, pneumonia, dental problems, and esophageal cancer.

How is heartburn treated?

Talk with a doctor if you have heartburn. She can advise you about lifestyle changes. If behavior change is not enough, he/she can recommend medications that can reduce reflux. Antacids, H2 Blockers (Pepsid, Zantac), and Proton Pump Inhibitors (Priolsec, Prevacid) are all medications that are used to treat heartburn.