What is heartburn, and what causes it?
Heartburn is a condition that is characterized by a burning sensation in the chest. This sensation is often caused by acid reflux-when stomach acid backs up into the esophagus. Heartburn can be treated with lifestyle changes, over-the-counter medications, or surgery.
What are the causes of heartburn?
There are many different causes of heartburn, but the most common one is acid reflux. When stomach acid backs up into the esophagus, it can cause a burning sensation in the chest. Other causes of heartburn include:
- Overeating
- Eating spicy foods
- Drinking alcohol
- Smoking cigarettes
- Stress
- Pregnancy
How can heartburn be treated?
There are many different ways to treat heartburn, depending on the severity of the condition. Some lifestyle changes that can help relieve heartburn include:
- Avoiding trigger foods
- Eating smaller meals
- Not eating late at night
- Elevating the head of the bed
- Losing weight
- Quitting smoking
Over-the-counter medications such as antacids and H2 blockers can also help relieve heartburn. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to correct the underlying cause of heartburn.
If you suffer from heartburn frequently, it is important to speak to a doctor to find the best treatment option for you. Untreated heartburn can lead to serious complications such as ulcers and GERD.
Are there any risks associated with heartburn surgery?
Heartburn surgery is a procedure that is used to treat heartburn and other digestive problems. There are many different types of heartburn surgery, and the type that is best for you will depend on the cause of your heartburn. Common heartburn surgery procedures include:
- Fundoplication- this surgery is used to correct GERD by wrapping the top of the stomach around the esophagus to prevent acid from backing up
- Gastric bypass- this surgery is used to help people lose weight, and it also helps to reduce the amount of acid that is produced in the stomach.
- Nissen fundoplication- this surgery is used to correct GERD by tightening the valve between the stomach and esophagus.
Heartburn surgery is generally safe, but like any surgery, there are risks involved. These risks include:
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Difficulty swallowing
- Heartburn that does not improve after surgery
If you are considering heartburn surgery, it is important to speak to your doctor about the risks and benefits of the different procedures.
How can heartburn be prevented in the first place?
Heartburn can be prevented by avoiding trigger foods, eating smaller meals, not eating late at night, elevating the head of the bed, losing weight, and quitting smoking.
Heartburn is a condition that is characterized by a burning sensation in the chest. This sensation is often caused by acid reflux-when stomach acid backs up into the esophagus. Heartburn can be treated with lifestyle changes, over-the-counter medications, or surgery.
New York Gastroenterology Associates (NYGA) is a premier independent gastroenterology practice in New York City. Recognized for providing the highest quality gastroenterological care. We provide consultation and a wide range of ambulatory tests at our offices throughout New York City. Request an appointment right now to get the help you need!