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Guide to Understanding Heartburn and how to manage it

In some people, the sphincter between the stomach and esophagus doesn't work as well as it should. This allows acid to seep into the esophagus (called acid reflux), where it can cause pain and irritation.

Not everyone with acid reflux suffers from heartburn, and some people with "heartburn" symptoms don't actually have acid reflux but may have some other condition causing this pain. The hallmark of acid reflux is heartburn -- a painful burning sensation in the middle of the chest. Heartburn typically strikes after meals and can last several hours. The discomfort may be worse after bending over or lying down. Other symptoms of severe acid reflux include a sour-tasting fluid in the back of the throat, difficulty swallowing, or feeling that food is stuck in the chest or throat. A chronic cough or asthma attacks can also be caused by acid reflux.
A description of heartburn symptoms is usually all that’s needed to diagnose acid reflux. Anyone can develop heartburn, but certain lifestyle factors affect how well the sphincter works, as well as the amount of acid produced by the stomach. People who are overweight, eat large meals, wear tight-fitting clothes, or smoke tend to be more vulnerable. If you have severe heartburn or heartburn two or more times a week, you may have a condition called GERD (gastro-esophageal reflux disease) and you should see your doctor. Without treatment, it can cause inflammation, ulcers, and scarring. It could also lead to changes in the cells lining the esophagus. These changes raise the risk of esophageal cancer. You may be able to manage mild heartburn with a few changes to your daily routine.
Start by eating smaller meals. Finish dinner at least three to four hours before bedtime and avoid late-night snacks. (Having food in your stomach when you lie down can trigger acid reflux symptoms such as heartburn.)
Watch What You Eat /Drink: Some foods are known to contribute to heartburn by bringing additional acid into the stomach or by relaxing the lower esophageal sphincter.
Stay away from food that may give you problems. Your symptoms may improve if you avoid tomatoes, onions, garlic, chocolate, peppermint, fatty foods, and citrus fruits, including oranges and grapefruit. If you find spicy foods are a trigger, try milder versions rather than giving up your favorite foods altogether. Certain beverages can also bring on heartburn. These include coffee, tea, sodas, alcohol, tomato juice, and orange juice. However, unless these are causing you acid reflux symptoms, you don't have to avoid them. Some types of exercise can increase abdominal pressure, increasing the risk of acid reflux so you might need to change your exercise routine if you exercise. Another way to ease heartburn is to take pressure off the abdomen. Lose excess weight and wear loose-fitting clothes and belts.


                                                                                                  By...Belinda Yeboah

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