Does this sound familiar? You’ve just enjoyed a nice meal, when suddenly a burning pain creeps up your throat. Then comes a bitter taste, coughing, and discomfort. This is heartburn, and for over 60 million Americans, it’s a recurring health problem. 

Luckily, just a few healthy habits can significantly lower the risk for heartburn, all the while improving your overall health. Here’s everything to know.

What is Heartburn?

Heartburn doesn’t involve your heart. Rather, it’s a burning sensation in your chest caused by stomach acid moving into your throat, a complication known as acid reflux. Occasional reflux is normal, but frequent episodes may mean you have GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease).

GERD happens when stomach acid repeatedly irritates the esophagus, leading to symptoms like heartburn, a sour taste, trouble swallowing, chronic cough, and even dental issues. If left untreated, it can cause serious complications.

GERD can sometimes mimic a heart attack. If you feel chest pain spreading to your arm, seek medical help immediately.

Symptoms

The warning signs of heartburn include:

• A burning feeling in the chest
• A sour taste in the mouth (caused by stomach acid)
• Cough or hiccups that keep coming back
• Hoarse voice
• Bad breath
• Bloating
• Nausea

Symptoms are often worst after eating, when lying down, or when bending over.

Causes 

Heartburn impacts people of all ages and backgrounds, and can happen for no clear reason. However, it can also be triggered or worsened by:

• Food and drinks — Including coffee, tomatoes, alcohol, chocolate, and fatty or spicy foods
• Late meal times — Eating too close to bedtime can cause heartburn
• Weight — Being overweight puts pressure on your stomach
• Smoking — Regular smoking weakens the muscle that keeps stomach acid down
• Pregnancy — Hormone changes can cause acid reflux
• Stress and anxiety — High stress levels can intensify symptoms
• Hormones — Those with higher levels of progesterone and estrogen can be at increased risk
• Medications — Including common pain relievers like ibuprofen
• Hiatal hernia — A condition in which part of the stomach moves into the chest
• Stomach issues — Such as ulcers or bacterial infections

Tips for Prevention

Preventing heartburn helps keep your digestive system healthy and can stop discomfort from interfering with your daily life. By making simple changes, you can reduce your risk and avoid long-term problems.

Be sure to:

• Eat smaller meals more often
• Eat slowly and chew thoroughly
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Limit consumption of fatty foods
• Practice relaxation and stress reduction exercises
• Raise the head of your bed (10-20 cm) with wood, bricks, or books

If heartburn keeps recurring, a pharmacist can recommend medicines like antacids or alginates. Make an appointment with your primary care provider if symptoms become more frequent or severe, even after lifestyle changes.

Taking Charge of Your Health with AltaMed

Whether you’re facing a health challenge, or simply want an annual checkup, AltaMed has you covered. Thanks to our comprehensive care model, you’ll receive all the services you need under one roof. Best of all, with locations throughout Southern California, you’ll always be close to home. Schedule an appointment online or by calling (888) 499-9303.