Heartburn

What is Heartburn?

Heartburn, also known as acid reflux, happens when stomach acid backs up into the esophagus. This creates a burning feeling in the chest and throat, especially after meals. While it’s normal to experience occasional heartburn, frequent episodes may indicate gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). This condition affects people of all ages and can significantly impact daily life. In this guide, you’ll learn what causes heartburn, how to manage symptoms, and when to seek medical care.

What Causes Heartburn?

Heartburn is caused by the weakening of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), a muscle that acts as a valve between the stomach and esophagus. When the LES doesn’t close properly, stomach acid can escape into the esophagus. Common causes and risk factors include:

• Dietary choices: Spicy, fatty, or acidic foods; caffeine; and alcohol.
• Lifestyle habits: Overeating, lying down after meals, or smoking.
• Medical conditions: Obesity, pregnancy, or hiatal hernia.
• Medications: Certain pain relievers, muscle relaxants, or antidepressants.
  
  

To stop heartburn before it starts, try eating smaller meals, avoiding foods that bother your stomach, and staying at a healthy weight.

Common Symptoms of Heartburn

The most common symptoms of heartburn are:

• A burning feeling in the chest that tends to get worse after meals or when lying down.
• A sour or bitter taste in the mouth.
• Difficulty swallowing.
• Chronic cough or sore throat in some cases. If untreated, symptoms can become more severe, leading to complications such as esophageal damage or GERD.

Health care providers diagnose heartburn based on symptoms and may recommend additional tests if needed. These can include:

• Endoscopy: A camera is used to examine the esophagus for damage.
• pH monitoring: Measures acid levels in the esophagus.
• Barium swallow: X-ray imaging to assess the esophagus and stomach.

How is Heartburn Treated?

Heartburn relief can often be achieved through a combination of medications and lifestyle changes. Options include:

• Non-prescription antacids: Offer fast relief by balancing excess stomach acid.
• H2 blockers or proton pump inhibitors (PPIs): Reduce acid production for long-term management.
• Lifestyle changes: Making changes like avoiding certain foods, eating lighter meals and remaining upright after eating may reduce heartburn symptoms
• Surgery: In severe cases, procedures like fundoplication can reinforce the LES. Our team at Riverside provides tailored treatment plans to help patients manage symptoms effectively and improve quality of life.

You should contact a health care provider if:

Symptoms occur more than twice a week or worsen over time.

You have trouble swallowing or have ongoing chest discomfort.

Over-the-counter medications don’t provide relief. Seek immediate medical attention if symptoms mimic those of a heart attack, such as severe chest pain or shortness of breath.

Take control of your health today:

Schedule an appointment with a Riverside provider to discuss your symptoms.

Learn more about our diagnostic and treatment options for heartburn and GERD.

Explore helpful resources on managing acid reflux in our blog.

At Riverside Health, we're dedicated to compassionate, collaborative care. We provide a wide range of services, from childbirth to end-of-life care, delivering over 2 million services each year. Our integrated network allows us to support you seamlessly through health, illness, recovery, and wellness. With top clinicians and advanced technology, we’re here for you at convenient locations close to home and work. Visit riversideonline.com.

If you’re wondering where the best place is to get care, please see our guide below:

If your problem is life- or limb-threatening, call 911 or go to the emergency room.

Primary Care – Schedule through MyChart or call your provider’s office who you go to for most health care needs.

Virtual Clinic – Schedule through MyChart or click Here to learn more about Primary Care On Demand.

MD Express Urgent Care – Click Here to find a location near you for after-hours care or when your primary care provider is not available. Open 9am-9pm, Mon-Sun.

If you’re not sure, call Riverside Nurse 24/7 at 1-800-675-6368