Heartburn pain is a common health issue that many people experience at one time or another. It can sometimes be a symptom of a more serious medical condition called acid reflux or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Heartburn pain can range anywhere from occasional, mild discomfort to a strong, prolonged burning sensation in the esophagus or chest. There are several methods for dealing with it, depending on the frequency and severity of the heartburn. Possible solutions can include making lifestyle changes and trying natural or home remedies. When these techniques are ineffective, many people resort to taking over-the-counter or prescription medications and, in some serious cases, undergoing surgery.
While it may take more drastic measures to relieve chronic heartburn, someone who only experiences the condition occasionally can follow certain basic guidelines for dealing with it. To prevent heartburn and acid reflux, doctors often advise people to avoid so-called trigger foods that can cause an adverse reaction. Some examples of commonly troublesome items include spicy foods, acidic fruits and vegetables, coffee, chocolate, and alcohol. Many of these either irritate the esophageal lining, or affect the sphincter muscle that usually keeps acid contained in the stomach. Other food-related tips to prevent heartburn include eating smaller meals, eating slowly, not lying down immediately after eating, and not eating close to bedtime. Certain medications have also been known to trigger heartburn in some people.
In addition to avoiding certain foods and medications, some people find that making other simple lifestyle changes can help to deal with occasional heartburn pain. Since a number of overweight people struggle with heartburn, many physicians also suggest that such patients lose weight to potentially alleviate the problem. Another tip is to sleep with one’s head elevated, making stomach acid less likely to travel up the esophagus and damage its lining. Wearing loose clothing that does not constrict the abdominal area might help decrease acid reflux, as well. Some people relieve their heartburn pain by using herbs or other home remedies, although there have been few scientific studies documenting the effectiveness of them.
A large percentage of sufferers rely on some type of medication to deal with their heartburn pain. Antacids often provide temporary relief, as can many over-the-counter versions of some medications that were previously available by prescription only. The most common products recommended by health professionals include acid reducers and proton pump inhibitors. People who have tried over-the-counter options and still experience heartburn pain are often advised to consider trying a prescription-strength medication.
In rare cases, someone suffering from persistent or extreme heartburn pain may need to undergo diagnostic tests or surgery to eliminate it. A chronic problem, or GERD, might be a sign of a more serious health condition. Someone with concerns about his or her heartburn pain should consult a gastroenterologist for more information and a personalized treatment plan.