November 20, 2009, Newsletter Issue #106: It Could be Heartburn or it Could be Something More Serious

Tip of the Week

Heartburn is often described as burning in the chest with a bitter or sour taste in the mouth and throat. This usually happens after eating a large meal or lying down after eating. Heartburn occurs when stomach acid escapes the stomach and get into the esophagus—also known as acid reflux. This acid can irritate the stomach causing a burning sensation (heartburn). Hiatal hernia can also cause heartburn. Hiatal hernia is a medical condition in which the stomach protrudes through the diaphragm. If heartburn or acid reflux occurs regularly it may be a symptom of GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease), gastritis (inflamed stomach lining) or possibly a peptic ulcer. Some things can increase the chance of heartburn or make heartburn more severe such as:
• Being overweight
• Caffeine
• Alcohol
• Citrus fruits
• Tomato and tomato products
• Chocolate
• Fatty and spicy foods
• Smoking tobacco
• Aspirin and ibuprofen
• Other medicines

Persistent heartburn could be a symptom of heart disease. If you have persistent heart burn you should contact your health care provider. They can help you find heartburn relief and prescribe medication for your acid reflux symptoms.

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