Heartburn is a common symptom that occurs when acidic stomach contents are pushed back into the esophagus. This is accompanied by a burning sensation behind the breastbone, a sour taste in the mouth, and sometimes belching and throat irritation. Most often, symptoms worsen after eating or when lying down. UNN has gathered tips on how to control this unpleasant condition at home through changes in diet and lifestyle.
What triggers heartburn
The main cause is a malfunction of the lower esophageal sphincter, which normally prevents stomach contents from returning to the esophagus. If its tone is reduced, acidic contents enter the upper parts of the digestive tract.
Factors that increase the risk of heartburn include fatty and fried foods, spicy dishes, chocolate, coffee, carbonated drinks, and alcohol. Symptoms also occur with overeating, eating too quickly, or consuming large portions before bedtime.
Additional factors include excess weight, pregnancy, stress, smoking, and tight clothing that increases pressure in the abdominal area. In some cases, heartburn accompanies gastritis, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), or other diseases of the digestive system.
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How to quickly relieve the condition during heartburn
At home, it is important to change body position after eating. Doctors advise staying in an upright position for at least 2-3 hours. Bending forward or lying down immediately after a meal increases the likelihood of acid reflux.
Drinking a small amount of warm water can reduce irritation of the esophageal mucosa. Water partially lowers the acid concentration. It is important to avoid large volumes of liquid in a short time to prevent creating additional pressure in the stomach.
Chewing sugar-free gum stimulates saliva production. Saliva contains substances that partially neutralize acid and help clear the esophagus.
If heartburn appears after physical exertion, it is advisable to take a break and avoid activities involving bending or straining the abdominal muscles.
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Diet for heartburn
Diet has a direct impact on the frequency of symptoms. Doctors recommend that people suffering from heartburn limit foods that stimulate acid secretion or irritate the mucosa. These include fatty dishes, smoked meats, canned goods, coffee, chocolate, citrus fruits, tomatoes, and carbonated drinks.
Meals should be regular, with small portions. It is optimal to eat 3-4 times a day without long breaks. Overeating increases pressure in the stomach and triggers reflux. The temperature of the food should be moderate. Too hot or cold dishes can further irritate the mucosa.
It is advisable to prefer boiled, stewed, or baked dishes. The diet can include cereals, lean meat, fish, cooked vegetables, and low-fat dairy products.
Home remedies that help cope with heartburn
Among home remedies, a solution of baking soda in water is sometimes used. It temporarily reduces acidity but is not intended for regular use. Frequent use can lead to a disruption of the acid-base balance and worsening of symptoms in the future.
Warm milk can reduce burning for a short period. At the same time, for some people, it stimulates the production of gastric juice, so the effect depends on individual reaction.
Infusions of chamomile or flaxseed can have a moderate protective effect on the mucosa. They are used as an auxiliary remedy for infrequent episodes of heartburn.
Ginger in small amounts is sometimes used to reduce nausea and discomfort, but with increased sensitivity, it can cause a reverse reaction.
Lifestyle changes as a way to get rid of heartburn
Losing weight when excess is present helps reduce intra-abdominal pressure, as it lowers the risk of acidic contents entering the esophagus. Additionally, it is important to avoid clothing that constricts the abdomen.
Smoking affects the tone of the esophageal sphincter and contributes to the occurrence of heartburn. Quitting this habit reduces the frequency of symptoms.
Stress can exacerbate heartburn symptoms by affecting the nervous regulation of digestion. A regular sleep and rest schedule will help stabilize well-being.
Heartburn: when to seek medical help
If heartburn occurs regularly, more than twice a week, or is accompanied by pain, difficulty swallowing, nausea, vomiting, or weight loss, a doctor's consultation is necessary.
Prolonged symptoms may indicate gastroesophageal reflux disease or other digestive system disorders. In such cases, an examination and selection of medical treatment are required.
Home methods are effective for episodic manifestations. For systematic symptoms, self-treatment does not provide a stable result and can lead to complications.
Attention! This material is for informational purposes only. If you are concerned about health problems, consult a doctor.