What are the common symptoms of GERD. How is GERD diagnosed. What are the available treatment options for GERD. Who are the specialists that treat GERD. What is the Heartburn and Reflux Center of Richmond. How does magnetic implant surgery work for GERD. What is a Heller myotomy procedure.

Understanding Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

Gastroesophageal reflux disease, commonly known as GERD, is a chronic condition where stomach acids flow back into the esophagus. This backflow can cause a range of uncomfortable symptoms and, if left untreated, may lead to more serious complications. GERD affects millions of people worldwide and can significantly impact quality of life.

Common Symptoms of GERD

GERD manifests through various symptoms, some of which may not be immediately associated with the condition. Recognizing these signs is crucial for early diagnosis and treatment. The most common symptoms include:

• Chronic heartburn
• Acid reflux
• Regurgitation
• Chest pain
• Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
• Chronic non-productive dry cough
• Wheezing
• Asthma-like symptoms
• Indigestion

Can GERD cause respiratory symptoms? Yes, GERD can indeed lead to respiratory issues such as chronic cough, wheezing, and even asthma-like symptoms. This occurs when stomach acid irritates the airways, causing inflammation and breathing difficulties.

Diagnostic Procedures for GERD

Accurate diagnosis of GERD is essential for effective treatment. Gastroenterologists and GERD specialists employ various diagnostic tests to confirm the condition and assess its severity. These tests help in creating a tailored treatment plan for each patient.

Advanced Diagnostic Techniques

Modern medical facilities, such as the Heartburn and Reflux Center of Richmond at Henrico Doctors’ Hospital, offer a comprehensive range of diagnostic procedures:

1. 24-hour esophageal pH monitoring
2. Barium swallow exam
3. Capsule pH study
4. Endoscopy
5. Esophageal DNA test
6. Esophageal manometry

How does 24-hour esophageal pH monitoring work? This test involves inserting a small tube through the nose or mouth into the stomach. The tube remains in place for 24 hours, continuously monitoring the amount and frequency of stomach acid that backs up into the esophagus. This provides valuable data on the severity of acid reflux over an extended period.

Treatment Options for GERD

GERD treatment typically follows a stepped approach, starting with lifestyle modifications and progressing to more advanced interventions if needed. The goal is to alleviate symptoms, heal the esophagus, and prevent complications.

Non-Surgical Treatments

Initial treatment for GERD often includes:

• Dietary changes (avoiding trigger foods)
• Weight loss
• Elevating the head of the bed
• Quitting smoking
• Medications (antacids, H2 blockers, proton pump inhibitors)

Why are lifestyle changes important in managing GERD? Lifestyle modifications can significantly reduce the frequency and severity of GERD symptoms. By avoiding trigger foods, maintaining a healthy weight, and adopting better eating habits, many patients experience substantial relief without the need for more invasive treatments.

Minimally Invasive Surgical Options

When non-surgical treatments prove ineffective, minimally invasive procedures may be recommended. These outpatient procedures offer relief with shorter recovery times compared to traditional surgery:

• Magnetic implant for reflux management
• Heller myotomy for achalasia
• Laparoscopic fundoplication

How does the magnetic implant procedure work? This innovative treatment involves laparoscopically placing a series of interlinked titanium beads with magnetic cores around the lower esophageal sphincter. The magnetic attraction between the beads enhances the barrier function of the sphincter, preventing reflux while allowing normal swallowing. This procedure is reversible and preserves physiological function.

The Role of Specialized GERD Centers

Specialized centers like the Heartburn and Reflux Center of Richmond play a crucial role in comprehensive GERD management. These centers bring together multidisciplinary teams of experts to provide cutting-edge diagnostics and treatments.

Benefits of Specialized Care

Seeking treatment at a specialized GERD center offers several advantages:

• Access to the latest diagnostic technologies
• Experienced specialists in GERD management
• Personalized treatment plans
• Advanced surgical options
• Ongoing support and follow-up care

What makes the Heartburn and Reflux Center of Richmond unique? This center takes a comprehensive approach to GERD treatment, moving beyond reliance on medication alone. They offer specialized testing to identify the root causes of symptoms and provide a range of treatment options, from medical management to advanced surgical techniques. Their goal is to serve as a model for other facilities in GERD care.

Living with GERD: Management and Lifestyle Adjustments

While GERD can be a challenging condition, many patients successfully manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life through a combination of medical treatment and lifestyle changes.

Daily Management Strategies

Effective GERD management often involves:

• Eating smaller, more frequent meals
• Avoiding lying down immediately after eating
• Identifying and avoiding personal trigger foods
• Wearing loose-fitting clothing around the abdomen
• Managing stress through relaxation techniques
• Maintaining a healthy weight

How can stress affect GERD symptoms? Stress can exacerbate GERD symptoms by increasing stomach acid production and altering digestive processes. Additionally, stress may lead to behaviors that worsen GERD, such as overeating or consuming alcohol. Implementing stress-reduction techniques can be an important part of GERD management for many patients.

Advances in GERD Research and Treatment

The field of GERD management is constantly evolving, with ongoing research into new diagnostic tools, treatment options, and understanding of the condition’s underlying mechanisms.

Emerging Therapies and Technologies

Some of the exciting developments in GERD research include:

• Improved endoscopic techniques for diagnosis and treatment
• Novel pharmaceutical approaches targeting different aspects of reflux
• Advancements in minimally invasive surgical procedures
• Exploration of the gut microbiome’s role in GERD
• Personalized medicine approaches based on genetic factors

What role might artificial intelligence play in GERD management? AI technologies are being explored for their potential to improve GERD diagnosis and treatment. Machine learning algorithms could help analyze pH monitoring data more accurately, predict treatment outcomes, and even assist in personalized diet recommendations to minimize reflux episodes.

When to Seek Medical Attention for GERD Symptoms

While occasional heartburn is common, persistent or severe symptoms may indicate GERD and warrant medical evaluation. Understanding when to consult a healthcare provider is crucial for proper management and prevention of complications.

Red Flags for Immediate Medical Attention

Seek immediate medical care if you experience:

• Chest pain that could be mistaken for a heart attack
• Severe or persistent abdominal pain
• Difficulty swallowing or painful swallowing
• Unexplained weight loss
• Vomiting blood or passing black, tarry stools
• Chronic cough or hoarseness that doesn’t improve

Why is it important not to ignore persistent GERD symptoms? Chronic, untreated GERD can lead to serious complications such as esophageal strictures, Barrett’s esophagus, or even esophageal cancer. Early intervention and proper management can significantly reduce the risk of these long-term health issues.

The Importance of Specialized GERD Care

Managing GERD effectively often requires the expertise of specialists who focus on gastrointestinal disorders. These professionals have the knowledge and experience to provide comprehensive care tailored to each patient’s unique needs.

Types of Specialists Involved in GERD Treatment

The multidisciplinary approach to GERD care may involve several types of healthcare providers:

• Gastroenterologists
• Gastrointestinal surgeons
• Nurse practitioners specializing in GI disorders
• Dietitians with expertise in digestive health
• Speech therapists (for patients with severe swallowing difficulties)
• Psychologists (to address stress-related factors)

How do these specialists work together to provide comprehensive GERD care? In specialized centers, these professionals collaborate to develop personalized treatment plans. They consider all aspects of a patient’s condition, from diagnostic testing and medical management to surgical interventions and lifestyle modifications. This integrated approach ensures that patients receive the most appropriate and effective care for their specific situation.

The management of GERD requires a nuanced understanding of the condition and a tailored approach to treatment. By seeking care from specialized centers and staying informed about the latest advancements, patients can effectively manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life. As research continues to uncover new insights into GERD, the future holds promise for even more effective and personalized treatment options.

GERD & Reflux Care | Henrico Doctors’ Hospital

Heartburn and reflux are conditions that commonly affect the gastrointestinal system. Reflux, also known as acid reflux, occurs when stomach acid travels back up the esophagus and into the mouth. Heartburn, a burning sensation in the chest, is a symptom of reflux.

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GERD specialists in Richmond, Virginia

No matter your gastric condition, we’re here to help you.

The gastrointestinal (GI) specialists at the Heartburn and Reflux Center of Richmond at Henrico Doctors’ Hospital work to ensure that reflux doesn’t control your life. We performed the first magnetic sphincter augmentation and laparoscopic acid reflux surgery in the region.

For additional information or support, please call or email us using the following links.

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Need additional GERD support?

If you have heartburn or GERD or take medications for these conditions, fill out our patient form to be contacted by our heartburn nurse navigator, who can offer additional information and support.

If you have heartburn or GERD or take medications for these conditions, fill out our patient form to be contacted by our heartburn nurse navigator, who can offer additional information and support.

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Gastroenterology

What’s gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)? It’s an illness where stomach acids flow back into the esophagus. GERD signs can include:

• Achalasia
• Acid reflux
• Asthma
• Chest pain
• Chronic heartburn
• Chronic non-productive dry cough

• Dysphagia
• Indigestion
• Regurgitation
• Stomach hernia
• Wheezing

Learn more about the Heartburn and Reflux Center

One of Richmond’s first heartburn and reflux programs, our center takes a unique approach to treatment. Rather than completely relying on medication, we provide you an outlet to have specialized testing performed to truly get to the bottom of issues you may be experiencing. Whether your case calls for medical or surgical treatment, we look to be the model that other facilities follow.

From diagnosis through resolution of your symptoms, we provide a range of services designed to rejuvenate your digestive wellbeing.

Diagnostic testing for GERD

No matter your symptoms, in addition to the below testing, a doctor may order advanced imaging scans to provide a more comprehensive diagnosis. All esophageal manometry and 24-hour pH testing is performed at the Motility and Pelvic Floor Center of Parham Doctors’ Hospital.

Our spectrum of gastrointestinal diagnostic testing includes:

• 24-hour esophageal pH monitoring — uses a small tube passed through the nose or mouth into the stomach, where it remains in place for 24 hours, monitoring the amount and frequency of stomach acid that backs up
• Barium swallow exam — involves a series of X-rays before and after drinking a contrast material (barium) that coats the inside lining of your GI tract, making it more visible on the X-ray
• Capsule pH study — uses a temporary capsule in your esophagus to evaluate frequent heartburn and related symptoms over a 48-hour test period
• Endoscopy — involves thin, lighted tubes and a tiny camera to closely examine the lining of the esophagus, allowing your doctor to see irritation or changes to the esophagus
• Esophageal DNA test — DNA test that detects abnormal esophageal cells, such as Barrett’s esophagus, precancerous cells with dysplasia and cancer
• Esophageal manometry — passes a tube through your mouth into your esophagus to measure the pressure created by the muscles in your esophagus

Minimally invasive outpatient treatment options for GERD

If nonsurgical treatments such as lifestyle modification and medication management have not proven effective, an outpatient procedure may be your best option. In these cases, we offer a variety of minimally invasive, outpatient procedures to treat GERD.

Heller myotomy for achalasia

This is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to treat achalasia, a rare disorder that blocks food and liquid from passing into your stomach from your esophagus. Achalasia is the result of damaged nerves in the esophagus. During this procedure, your surgeon will cut the muscles of your lower esophageal sphincter, allowing food and liquids to effectively pass to the stomach.

Magnetic implant for reflux management

A minimally invasive laparoscopic procedure, magnetic implants are a series of interlinked titanium beads with magnetic cores that are placed around the esophagus just above the stomach. The magnetic attraction between the beads expands the existing esophageal sphincter’s barrier function to prevent reflux. This procedure is reversible and allows you to preserve normal physiological functions, such as belching or vomiting.

Nissen fundoplication

This is a laparoscopic procedure in the abdomen that allows the doctor to directly see and operate on your stomach. This surgery uses small incisions to pass surgical tools into the abdomen to complete the surgery. Your surgeon will view the areas on a screen with images from a small camera in the abdomen.

Radiofrequency ablation for Barrett’s esophagus

Radiofrequency ablation can minimize the risk of developing esophageal cancer if you have Barrett’s esophagus. The procedure takes place in your esophagus and involves inserting an endoscope (a thin, flexible, lighted tube) that then transmits internal images which allow your physician to see which esophageal areas require treatment. An ablation catheter is also inserted into the esophagus to deliver energy to the abnormal tissue. The procedure can minimize or prevent abnormal cells from developing into a cancerous condition.

Radiofrequency therapy for reflux symptoms

Radiofrequency therapy is a nonsurgical way to treat the underlying problems that may cause GERD. Performing this therapy takes about an hour, and it delivers radiofrequency energy to the muscle between the stomach and esophagus, improving the muscle tissue. The result is enhanced barrier function and fewer reflux events.

Transoral incisionless fundoplication (TIF)

This innovative procedure rebuilds the anti-reflux valve and restores the body’s natural protection against reflux without requiring incisions in your abdomen. TIF is a long-lasting, safe and effective way to treat GERD.

For some people, GERD creates serious medical problems. Severe cases of GERD can lead to esophagitis, Barrett’s esophagus, strictures and esophageal cancer. That’s why it’s so important to understand if you are at risk of developing GERD.

Acid reflux vs heartburn

Heartburn is a symptom of acid reflux, and sometimes the two terms can mistakenly be used interchangeably. While heartburn involves mild-to-severe chest pain that is sometimes mistaken for a heart attack, it has nothing to do with the heart. Instead, it takes place in your esophagus, a part of your digestive system. When acid forms in your esophagus — typically after eating — it causes a burning sensation around your breastbone, causing that chest pain.

Acid reflux occurs when the circular muscle that joins your esophagus and stomach (the lower esophageal sphincter) either does not close all the way during swallowing or opens when it is not supposed to. When this occurs, stomach acid flows backwards into your esophagus, creating a burning sensation that can cause a sore throat, cough or sour taste in the mouth.

Risk factors for GERD

GERD is the chronic form of acid reflux, but its key risk factors are mostly avoidable and treatable. Get serious about your condition with your doctor if you are:

• 40 years old or older
• Diabetic
• Frequently smoking
• In the habit of consuming alcohol, citrus, caffeine, tomato-based foods, chocolate, spicy foods or peppermint
• Overweight
• Pregnant
• Regularly stooping, bending or lifting heavy objects (especially as part of your job or day-to-day life)

When heartburn is a sign of GERD

Heartburn is a common symptom that affects more than 60 million Americans each month. This is critical because heartburn is a key symptom and indicator of GERD, especially if your heartburn:

• Affects your sleep
• Has occurred regularly for several years
• Occurs twice or more a week
• Persists and becomes more severe

Do you have GERD

If you answer “yes” to two or more of the following questions, ask your doctor more seriously about GERD:

• Do you experience a bitter acid taste in your mouth?
• Do you experience an uncomfortable feeling behind the breastbone that seems to be moving upward from the stomach?
• Do you experience heartburn or acid indigestion two or more times per week?
• Do you have a burning sensation in the back of your throat?
• Do you often experience these problems after meals?
• Do you take antacids or prescription medication to treat heartburn, but still have symptoms or experience only temporary relief?

Acid reflux vs heartburn

Risk factors for GERD

When heartburn is a sign of GERD

Do you have GERD

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How a gastroenterologist can help relieve heartburn

Does this sound like a typical day? Maybe you take an antacid with your morning coffee, a Zantac with lunch or a Nexium with dinner—perhaps a combination of tactics to keep heartburn at bay. If this sounds familiar, you’ve got a lot of company. It’s estimated that about 20 percent of American adults have heartburn symptoms at least once a week.

Over the long term, heartburn can increase your risk for serious health conditions, including cancer. That’s why it’s important to see a gastroenterologist and get frequent heartburn under control.

LISTEN: Dr. Patel discusses frequent heartburn in the Medical Intel podcast.

https://ct1.medstarhealth.org/content/uploads/sites/135/2018/01/Dr-Patel-Heartburn-2.mp3

What is heartburn?

Heartburn happens in the esophagus, which is the tube food passes through as it goes from the mouth to the stomach. The esophagus has a sensitive lining that works much like the skin. As food reaches the stomach, it’s broken down into smaller particles by stomach acid so the body can absorb the nutrients. If some stomach acid splashes back into the esophagus, it can burn the lining there.

This splash-back process is called acid reflux. It can happen because the esophagus opens and closes with a ring of muscle that we can’t control called the lower esophageal sphincter, or LES. As you eat and swallow, you naturally swallow some air, and the LES relaxes five or six times an hour. People who have acid reflux on a daily basis may have many more of these relaxations—up to 20 in an hour. The more the LES is relaxed, the easier it is for stomach acid to get into the esophagus and cause the burning sensation of heartburn.

Dietary Do’s and Don’ts – Click to enlarge.

Heartburn often can be triggered by a specific type of food, such as:

• Caffeine
• Chocolate
• Citrus fruits, such as grapefruits and oranges, which contain citric acid
• Spicy meals
• Tomatoes, including tomato juice and sauces

But for some patients, everything they eat causes heartburn. Being overweight or obese, especially if you carry extra weight in the upper torso, also can increase the risk of having heartburn. Chronic dry mouth—a common complaint of smokers—also contributes to the frequency and severity of heartburn, because saliva produced in the mouth naturally can shield the esophagus from some of the effects of stomach acid.

Why long-term self-treatment–or no treatment–is risky

There are many over-the-counter treatments available for heartburn. However, when patients tell me they’ve been treating heartburn on their own with antacids for many years, that’s a big red flag that something more serious might be going on.

Acid reflux and gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD (a chronic heartburn disease) do more than just cause heartburn, even though that’s all you may feel. The lining in your esophagus is delicate, and with repeated injury from acid reflux, the cells in that lining can transform into cells that are more like those in your stomach or intestines. This change is known as Barrett’s esophagus, and it can increase the risk for developing a dangerous form of esophageal cancer called esophageal adenocarcinoma.

Long-term self-treatment for #heartburn may be a sign of serious complications, including #esophagealcancer. bit.ly/2nCdxjy via @MedStarWHC

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We’re seeing more cases of Barrett’s esophagus and esophageal adenocarcinoma, and we’re seeing more people dying from this form of cancer as well. That’s why it’s so important to see a specialist like me for help with long-term heartburn.

Some of the common over-the-counter drugs patients often use for years before visiting a specialist include:

• Antacids, which include calcium carbonate, a substance that reacts with stomach acid to form water and carbon dioxide.
• Histamine h3 receptor blockers, such as Pepcid and Zantac, which reduce the amount of acid the stomach makes.
• Proton pump inhibitors, or PPIs, which block the enzymes that produce stomach acid. We use PPIs to diagnose GERD. The patient takes a PPI 30 to 60 minutes before their first meal of the day for two weeks, and if their heartburn symptoms stop during that time, that’s a pretty clear indication the patient has GERD.

When PPIs came on the market in the 1980s, they were considered wonder drugs. They quickly were classified as over-the-counter medications, available like aspirin or ibuprofen without a prescription. But we’ve started to see study results that show potential links between these medications and an increased risk for complications in certain populations, including:

• Decreased bone density
• Decreased magnesium levels
• Dementia in older adults
• Infections, such as pneumonia or a bacterial infection of the colon called clostridium difficile
• Kidney damage

Researchers are trying to determine whether PPIs actually cause some of these complications or if the link is coincidental. Because of the potential risks of these conditions, doctors have to think about how to get their patients off of PPIs over time if possible.

Managing heartburn and reducing your risk

Your doctor may recommend one or more diagnostic tests if you’ve had heartburn symptoms for a long time. A test called an esophagogastroduodenoscopy, or an upper endoscopy, can let us know whether your esophagus is damaged and, if so, how much damage it’s sustained. That can help us decide the best treatment options.

I work with my patients to make better lifestyle choices and avoid complications from acid reflux or GERD. Two of the most important approaches I recommend for my patients with heartburn are to maintain a healthy weight and, if they smoke, to quit. It’s often helpful for patients to keep a food diary for a period of time, so we can track what foods are more likely to cause their symptoms. Once we know the triggers, patients can avoid those foods. We’ll also track the severity of their symptoms:

• Are they coughing or having a lot of throat irritation?
• Is heartburn waking them up at night?
• Is stomach acid wearing the enamel off their teeth?

Patients who have severe, chronic GERD symptoms may be good candidates for surgical treatment. The most common surgical procedure to treat GERD is called fundoplication. In this procedure, the surgeon uses a thin, flexible tube called a laparoscope to sew part of the top of the stomach around the lower part of the esophagus. This makes it less likely that acid will back up into the esophagus.

With time and collaboration with your gastroenterologist, it’s possible to reduce or even eliminate the burning and discomfort of heartburn and reduce your risk for the dangerous complications it can cause.

Do you need help for persistent or long-term heartburn? Call

202-877-7108 or click below to make an appointment with a gastroenterologist.

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Heartburn is a burning sensation behind the breastbone along the esophagus. Basically, it occurs with increased acidity of gastric juice, 30-45 minutes after eating as a result of the release of acidic stomach contents into the esophagus, occasionally on an empty stomach.

This may also occur in patients with reduced gastric acid production. According to statistics, from 35 to 60% of people experience heartburn at least once a month.

• Causes of heartburn
• Main features of
• Diagnostics
• Heartburn treatment
• How dangerous is she
• Prevention

Causes of heartburn

These days, many people are worried about how to get rid of heartburn.

It occurs when the acidic contents of the stomach are expelled into the esophagus. There are many reasons:

• various organic acids formed in the stomach when digestion is disturbed;
• irritation of the esophagus with bile, which is ejected from the gallbladder into the duodenum, and then into the stomach and further into the esophagus;
• development of inflammatory processes in the upper gastrointestinal tract;
• functional disorders of the biliary tract;
• poorly chewed food, overeating;
• obesity;
• frequent consumption of spicy, fatty foods, chocolate;
• the presence of constant stress, depression;
• hiatal hernia;
• smoking.

Burning and retrosternal pain can also occur suddenly when lifting weights: intra-abdominal pressure rises sharply, as a result of which it becomes possible to release gastric contents into the esophagus.

Main features:

• acid eructation;
• feeling of bitterness, sour in the mouth;
• burning sensation behind the sternum and along the esophagus;
• cough, sore throat (usually begins 30 minutes after eating, worse when leaning forward and in a horizontal position).

Make an appointment with highly qualified specialists

Diagnostics

A thorough comprehensive examination of the organs of the gastrointestinal tract will help to make the correct diagnosis:

• gastroscopy for heartburn (examination of the stomach with a videoscope), examination of the acidity of gastric juice;
• x-ray of the stomach;
• delivery of a biochemical and general blood test;
• Analysis of urine.

Heartburn treatment

Therapeutic therapy is carried out in a complex and is selected individually by a specialist doctor, taking into account the characteristics of the patient: drug tolerance, age, etc.

There are many medicines available to help reduce acidity and soothe heartburn. The easiest and most popular method is baking soda.

This remedy relieves heartburn quickly, but should only be used occasionally. Mineral water also helps to reduce the acidity of gastric juice.

It is important to observe proper nutrition: eat five to six times a day, little by little, avoiding overfilling of the stomach. After eating, do not lie down immediately, you need to take a walk, wait, sit for at least 30-40 minutes. The correct position during sleep will prevent the backflow of stomach contents into the esophagus: sleep with two pillows under your head.

How dangerous is heartburn

Untimely access to a doctor can lead to the development of ulcerative processes and cancer of the esophagus. It also causes bleeding due to damaged areas of the esophagus.

Prophylaxis

For preventive purposes, it is important to adhere to the following recommendations:

• undergo an annual endoscopic examination;
• control body weight;
• do not overeat, especially before bedtime;
• eat healthy food;
• refuse clothes that tighten the stomach.

The main thing – do not self-medicate! We are ready and happy to help you.

Our clinic is open daily, you can find out the schedule of doctors’ appointments and make an appointment by phone +7 (495) 120-08-10

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How to treat heartburn? / Blog / Gastro-hepatocenter EXPERT

Contents

1. Causes of heartburn
2. Remedies for heartburn
3. How to get rid of heartburn without medication
4. Conclusion

Po WHO (World Health Organization) statistics, about 50% of the population of Russia periodically experience heartburn, with 10-20% suffering from it several times a week . Heartburn usually occurs after 20-30 minutes after a meal, and sometimes it can bother between meals and at night.

Although heartburn hardly reduces the overall quality of life, it indicates serious problems in the body that can lead to serious consequences if left untreated. In addition, nocturnal heartburn, which a person may not always feel, affects the quality of sleep and the feeling of fatigue during the day

In this article we will analyze: what causes heartburn; how it is usually treated, what are the pros and cons of such treatment; and how to get rid of heartburn without drugs.

What is heartburn and how is it treated?

Heartburn usually occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter does not close sufficiently and the contents of the stomach back up into the esophagus. Reflux can be both acidic and alkaline (less often), and sometimes mixed. Sometimes the upper sphincter that separates the esophagus from the throat also doesn’t close properly, further exacerbating heartburn. The ingestion of gastric juice on the tissues of the esophagus leads to their damage and may eventually cause cancer of the esophagus .

Among the factors that provoke heartburn, overweight plays an important role , especially central obesity (deposits on the abdomen). In recent decades, overweight people have become much more, which has led to an increase in the number of cases of heartburn.

Tobacco and alcohol use, as well as certain medications weaken the tone of the upper esophageal sphincter, which increases heartburn.

Eating large meals, lying down and exercising shortly after meals can also lead to reflux.

Foods that most commonly cause heartburn

Foods and beverages that contain acids to improve taste and extend shelf life often cause heartburn. But that doesn’t mean that foods that trigger heartburn have to be acidic. Often problems arise when eating fatty foods , as their digestion takes longer.

A number of common foods are acidic, which can provoke heartburn , such as sour vegetables and fruits, spicy foods, chocolate, coffee.

Heartburn remedies

Modern advertising teaches us that heartburn should be washed down with over-the-counter remedies instead of changing your lifestyle and diet.

Many drugs, if taken incorrectly (incorrectly selected dose, taken at the wrong time of day, etc.), in addition to the therapeutic effect, can also show dangerous properties . For example, proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), a group of drugs used to treat heartburn, play an important role in its correction. But, like any drug, they have side effects, which, if self-medicated, can lead to negative consequences.

Antacids are often prescribed to relieve symptoms of heartburn. These medications can also lead to side effects if taken regularly. One such effect is aluminum absorption, especially with frequent or long-term use, even though current antacids (almagel, maalox, phosphalugel, gastal) are non-absorbent.

Sometimes in the treatment of heartburn, h3-histamine receptor blockers are used, which, if used incorrectly, can also provoke serious undesirable consequences. This approach will reduce unpleasant symptoms and help in the restoration of damaged parts of the digestive tract.

However, if you have been prescribed heartburn medication by your doctor, do not stop your medication and rely on diet and lifestyle adjustments
.

Only a specialist doctor can prescribe, adjust dosages and cancel the drug.

How to get rid of heartburn without medication

The most effective non-drug ways to get rid of heartburn include:

• weight loss
• smoking cessation
• drinking only small amounts of alcohol
• avoiding artificial carbonated drinks
• switching from the usual 3 meals a day to 5-6 smaller meals
• stopping eating at least 3 hours before bedtime
• elevating the head of the head is sometimes helpful bed about 15 cm
• ration adjustment.

Nutrition advice

Avoid

Processed foods, carbonated drinks, sour vegetables and fruits, alcohol, chocolate, coffee.

Diversify your diet

Whole grains, legumes, lean meats and seafood, non-acidic vegetables and fruits are good for preventing heartburn.

Whole plant foods are high in fiber, to help fight heartburn . Fiber improves digestion, reduces pressure on the lower digestive sphincter, and helps to normalize weight. It is useful to eat 400-500 grams of vegetables daily, and half should be consumed raw . In addition, it is good to eat 200-300 grams of fresh fruit every day.

Dairy products are considered “food antacids”, therefore, if they are tolerated, they can and should also be consumed, better – reduced fat content.

Conclusion

Most of the above tips can be followed on your own, but for serious problems, as well as for weight loss and dietary adjustments without harm to health, we recommend that you consult a specialist doctor.