Heartburn

What is heartburn?

Heartburn is a common symptom of gastrointestinal reflux disease (GERD), which affects about 20% of people in the United States. 

Heartburn happens when stomach acid comes back up into your esophagus and creates a burning sensation in your chest or the back of your throat. Symptoms vary from person to person but can be extremely uncomfortable in some cases.

What are the symptoms of heartburn?

Common symptoms of heartburn include:

• An acidic or bitter taste in your mouth
• A burning sensation in your chest
• Burning near the back of your throat
• Pain that gets worse if you bend over or lie down

Burning pain associated with heartburn can range in severity from a mild nuisance to severe discomfort. If heartburn is long-lasting, check in with Dr. Cho to find a treatment that’s right for you. 

If chest pain feels more like pressure and is associated with shortness of breath, it could be a sign of a heart attack and require immediate medical attention.

What are the risk factors of heartburn?

When you swallow, your lower esophageal sphincter relaxes, allowing liquids and foods to flow into your stomach. If this sphincter doesn’t tighten back up like it should, reflux into your esophagus can occur. Risk factors associated with heartburn include:

• Pregnancy
• Drinking alcohol
• Being overweight
• Eating certain foods

Foods and drinks that may trigger heartburn include citrus foods, tomato products, onions, spicy foods, fried foods, fatty foods, chocolate, peppermint, carbonated drinks, coffee, and other caffeinated beverages.

How is heartburn treated?

To diagnose heartburn or medical conditions associated with it, such as GERD, Dr. Cho reviews your symptoms and medical history. He may order imaging tests, esophageal motility testing, or complete an endoscopy to look for esophagus abnormalities. 

Your personalized heartburn treatment plan might include:

• Over-the-counter heartburn medications
• Prescription medicines
• Dietary changes
• Weight loss
• Avoiding large meals
• Not smoking
• Abstaining from alcohol
• Not eating late at night
• Elevating the head of your bed

Dr. Cho customizes your heartburn treatment plan based on the severity of your symptoms and heartburn triggers. If left untreated, heartburn can damage your esophagus.

You don’t have to live with heartburn pain or discomfort when simple solutions are available at Samuel Cho, MD, PC. Call to learn more about heartburn treatment options, or schedule an appointment online today.