DO YOU KNOW THE TRUTH ABOUT HEARTBURN?

Is heartburn almost always caused by spicy foods?

Many foods relax the esophageal sphincter, the ring of muscle that acts as a “valve” between the esophagus and the stomach. Alcohol, caffeine, citrus, tomatoes, chocolate, and spearmint are among them. A relaxed esophageal sphincter lets harsh stomach acid “reflux”, or wash, back into the esophagus. This causes the discomfort of heartburn, and the sour or burning taste in the back of your throat. Spicy and fatty foods can trigger heartburn just like these other foods, but they are by no means the primary trigger.

That said, a big, spicy meal, washed down with coffee or beer, is a perfect setup for heartburn. A very full stomach from a big meal puts pressure on the sphincter, making it more likely that stomach acid will burble up. If you think food is triggering your heartburn, first start eating small meals. Then, cut out each suspected trigger food from your diet for a week or two to see which, if any, is causing the trouble.

Is heartburn uncomfortable, but never a serious health problem?

Heartburn can be a symptom of a serious problem called gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). It's estimated that 60 million Americans have heartburn once a month, and somewhere around 20 million have it daily.

Over-the-counter medicines such as antacids, H2 blockers (Axid, Pepcid, Tagamet and Zantac), and the proton-pump inhibitor Prilosec may be enough to relieve heartburn. But many people find that prescription medication is needed to control symptoms. These include the H2 blockers Axid, Pepcid, Tagamet, and Zantac and the proton pump inhibitors Aciphex, Nexium, Prevacid and Protonix. Other drugs are also available. In some cases surgery is an option to treat more severe disease.

Do pregnancy and heartburn go hand-in-hand?

About 50% of pregnant women get heartburn at least once a month, and one-quarter suffer from it every day. There are two reasons why: First, hormones released in early pregnancy can relax the esophageal sphincter. Later on, the growing baby puts pressure on the stomach.

To ease heartburn, pregnant women can take antacids that contain calcium carbonate (such as Tums). They should not take antacids that contain sodium bicarbonate, which can cause fluid retention. Pregnant women should consult with their doctor before considering any other medicine to relieve heartburn.

Does chewing gum help relieve heartburn?

Chewing gum stimulates saliva production, and saliva can help neutralize acid reflux. Don't chew peppermint or spearmint gum, however. Peppermint and spearmint are known heartburn triggers.

Is heartburn often worse at night?

When you're lying down, gravity doesn't let acid drain back into the stomach. A survey by the American Gastroenterological Association showed that 80% of heartburn sufferers had severe heartburn at night. Three-quarters of those surveyed said that heartburn kept them awake at night.

Can heartburn be a signal of a heart attack?

Heartburn has nothing to do with your heart. Acid reflux and heart disease aren't related in any way, except that the symptoms of both involve chest pain. Often heartburn pain can be so bad that people rush to the emergency room, thinking they're having a heart attack.

Have you ever been diagnosed with GERD?

You may have GERD if you get heartburn at least twice a week. Other problems that may point to GERD include difficulty swallowing, regurgitating food into the mouth, hoarseness, and cough or wheezing. You shouldn't put up with acid reflux, because it can do a lot of damage. GERD can cause ulcers, bleeding, and narrowing of the esophagus. Some GERD sufferers develop changes in the lining of the esophagus that may lead to cancer.

Do you experience nighttime heartburn 2 or more times a week?

To help ease nighttime heartburn, be sure not to eat for two to three hours before bed. Also, you can try raising the head of your bed 4 to 6 inches by placing blocks or a wedge under the mattress. Sleeping on your left side may help, too. If lifestyle changes don't ease your symptoms, talk to your doctor about other treatment options.