Heartburn: Oops acids are floating in my stomach

Causes:

• Gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD) is the main cause of heartburn

• Digestive motility: slow gastric emptying

• Other conditions like hiatal hernia, asthma and diabetes

• Pressure on stomach in: pregnancy and obesity in addition to tight clothing

• Medications: Like anti-anxiety, antibiotics,narcotics and aspirin

Treatment:

• Stop smoking

• Lose weight if you are overweight

• limit alcohol

• Avoid foods that trigger heartburn: black peppers,onion,citrus food, fast food, chocolate,coffee, spicy food

• Small frequent meals

• Avoid eating 2-3 hours before bedtime

• eat smaller meals and not eat within two to three hours of bedtime.

• Elevating your head while sleeping is helpful also

• Antacids: Pregnant women should refer to doctors to choose appropriate treatment

• Over-the-counter medications: like H2 blockers and proton pump inhibitors (PPI)

Sources:

https://www.verywellhealth.com/what-is-heartburn-1741960?_ga=2.181649765.310399848.1542877189-477167352.1540896316#treatment

https://www.nemechekconsultativemedicine.com/heartburn/