What Can Cause Heartburn

Heartburn happens when gastric acid returns back into the esophagus. Heartburn symptoms include a sour taste in your throat, burping, the feeling like something is stuck in the back of your throat, and/or a burning sensation in the chest. This burning up sensation usually begins behind the sternum (the breast bone), and travels to the throat. It generally occurs right after eating and it may last from a couple of minutes to many hours. The acid backup might worsen while you are bent over or lying down.

GERD (gastro-esophageal reflux disease) or acid reflux disease is a medical condition that is quite common and it affects just about 20% of the population. When the valve like muscle that closes the esophagus off from the stomach is weak then acids from the stomach are able to flow up into the esophagus. This weakness can be passed down genetically, but is also regularly found in obese people and those who eat excessive amounts of fat. Age can also play a factor as our muscles naturally weaken over time with age.

Some of the things we consume on a daily basis can cause heartburn. Some of the common things that trigger heartburn include aspirin, alcohol, caffeinated products, carbonated beverages, peppermint, fried foods, acidic foods like tomatoes, onions and garlic, acidic juices- mainly citrus fruit juices, chocolate, anti-inflammatory medications like ibuprofen, and even spices like pepper and mustard.

The foods we eat play a major role when it comes to having a natural balanced inner well-being. The foods, beverages, and medications above should be taken in very limited quantities. You should also try to avoid eating too fast, eating large meals, and eating right before bedtime. With changes in your diet and a little motivation to change your lifestyle, you can be well on your way to getting over your heartburn and improving the quality of your inner wellbeing long term.

Antacids are available over the counter for temporary relief of heartburn symptoms. Antacids come in liquid form, chewable tablets, chewing gum, and dissolving tablets, but for fastest results stick with the liquid antacid. One dose of any of these will help relieve heartburn for up to an hour. It is one of the fastest, inexpensive, and easiest ways to temporarily calm heartburn.

Having heartburn often could be a sign of a bigger health issue with your digestive system. You should go see a doctor if you get heartburn two times a week or more, if it has gotten worse over time, if it makes it hard for you to swallow, or interferes with your day to day life overall. You need to try and fix the problem within and you may need some expert advice to improve your health inside and out for long term results.

Simple life style changes in eating habits, activity, and behavior can help improve your heartburn condition. When you make the decision to improve the quality of your own life you will be on your way to avoiding heartburn symptoms, and prevent the recurrence of heartburn.

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