Understanding Heartburn
Heartburn is a sensation of burning or discomfort in the chest or beneath the breastbone, caused by the reflux of stomach acids into the esophagus. This discomfort occurs due to the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) at the bottom of the esophagus failing to close tightly, allowing stomach acids to enter the esophagus and trigger the burning sensation.
Symptoms of Heartburn
- Burning sensation in the chest, behind the breastbone, occurring after eating and lasting for several minutes to hours.
- Chest pain, especially when bending, lying down, or eating. Note: Any chest pain should be promptly evaluated by medical professionals.
- Burning sensation or a hot, sour, acidic, or salty taste in the throat.
- Difficulty swallowing.
- Feeling of food getting stuck in the chest or throat.
Belching, especially after eating.
- Throat irritation, sometimes even after eating, but often occurring as chronic throat discomfort (without other symptoms like cold, cough, or fever).
- Nausea, especially after eating, with no other accompanying symptoms.
- Increased production of saliva.
- Difficulty eating and drinking together.
Heartburn and Pregnancy:
More than half of pregnant women report experiencing heartburn, especially towards the middle to end of pregnancy. Excess weight gain during pregnancy and pressure from the growing baby can contribute to heartburn. Pregnancy-related hormonal changes can also affect digestive muscles and reactions to various foods. Fortunately, in most cases, heartburn subsides shortly after childbirth.
Tips to Alleviate Heartburn:
- Sleep with an Incline: Elevating the upper body while sleeping can help prevent nighttime heartburn. Placing a pillow under your head or raising the head of the bed slightly can assist in alleviating heartburn symptoms.
- Sleep on Your Left Side: Sleeping on your left side can help reduce heartburn discomfort.
- Eat Earlier: Avoid eating within two to three hours before bedtime to allow your stomach to digest the food before lying down.
- Physical Activity: While vigorous physical activity right before bedtime may exacerbate heartburn, moderate activities like walking after dinner can aid digestion and prevent nighttime heartburn.
- Smaller, Frequent Meals: Opt for smaller, more frequent meals instead of large, heavy ones. Listen to your body, and stop eating when you feel full.
- Avoid Alcohol: Alcohol is a known contributor to heartburn and should be avoided, especially during pregnancy.
- Maintain a Healthy Weight: Excess weight can put pressure on the upper part of the stomach, leading to heartburn. Focus on a balanced diet and regular exercise to maintain a healthy weight.
- Quit Smoking: Smoking weakens the lower esophageal sphincter, increasing the risk of heartburn. Quitting smoking is advisable.
- Identify Trigger Foods: Certain foods are known heartburn triggers. Maintaining a food diary organized by mealtime can help identify specific triggers and foods that worsen your heartburn.
- Loose Clothing: Wear loose-fitting clothing, avoiding tight belts or waistbands that can put pressure on your abdomen.
- Bend at the Knees: When picking up objects or bending down, bend at the knees rather than the waist to reduce pressure on the stomach.
- Chew Gum: Chewing gum (preferably without mint or menthol flavors) for about 30 minutes after a meal can stimulate saliva production, which helps neutralize stomach acid.
- Be Cautious with Medications: Some medications can exacerbate heartburn symptoms. Consult your healthcare provider to ensure your medications are suitable during pregnancy.
- Suitable medications: There are many medications available that neutralize stomach acids. Your doctor or pharmacist can recommend antacids that are suitable for your health condition
- Aloe Vera: Aloe vera drinks or supplements can provide soothing relief for heartburn.
- Bananas: Fresh or dried bananas serve as natural acid neutralizers.
- Chamomile Tea: Drinking chamomile tea can help relax the digestive tract and neutralize stomach acid.
- Ginger: Ginger, whether fresh, cooked, or in tea form, can alleviate heartburn and ease nausea.
- Turmeric: Turmeric can promote healthy digestion and prevent acid buildup. It can be added to meals or taken in capsule form.
Warning Signs
If you experience severe and frequent heartburn, consult a healthcare professional. Frequent nighttime heartburn can be a symptom of damage to the esophageal tissues. Symptoms of heartburn closely resemble those of a heart attack, so seek immediate medical attention if you experience sudden chest pain or pressure.
