Heartburn is a burning sensation that starts behind your breastbone, moves up to the neck and throat, and often worsens after you eat or lay down. Heartburn occurs when stomach acid backs up into the esophagus, the tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach. In some people, some foods and drinks can trigger heartburn, such as:
- Alcoholic beverages
- Carbonated and/or caffeinated beverages, such as soft drinks or coffee
- Citrus products, such as oranges or orange juice
- Chocolate
- Fatty or fried foods
- Large or fatty meals
- Onions
- Peppermint
- Spicy foods
- Tomato products, such as ketchup or marinara sauce
Being overweight or pregnant also increases your risk of developing heartburn. If you occasionally experience heartburn, it’s probably not cause for alarm. However, heartburn can be a sign of another underlying, chronic (ongoing) condition. For example, heartburn is a main symptom of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), which occurs when your stomach acid or food flows back up into your esophagus and irritates its lining.
As experts in digestive health, our gastroenterologists are equipped with the latest technology and immersed in leading-edge research to treat your heartburn. Our goal is to help eliminate your heartburn symptoms.
Tests
X-ray
Your GI doctor may order an X-ray to view the shape and condition of your esophagus and stomach.
Upper Endoscopy or EGD (Esophagogastroduodenoscopy)
This test looks at the lining or inside of your esophagus, stomach, and your small intestine using a thin, lighted tube that has a camera at one end (endoscope). We place the tube into your esophagus through your mouth.
Esophageal Motility Testing
Your GI doctor may recommend you undergo this test, which measures movement and pressure in your esophagus.
Treatments
Medications
Your GI doctor may prescribe medications – such as antacids, H2 blockers, or proton pump inhibitors – to help reduce the symptoms or treat the underlying cause of your heartburn.
Lifestyle Modifications
Your heartburn symptoms may decrease if you avoid alcohol and spicy, fatty, fried, or acidic foods, including chocolate, citrus fruit, caffeine, and tomato products. You should also eat smaller meals, not eat close to bedtime, and not lay down right after eating.
Why Choose UHealth?
A broad array of diagnostic and therapeutic procedures. Regardless of your age, condition, or whether you need long- or short-term digestive treatments, you will receive the most accurate diagnosis and most effective treatment to keep your stomach, digestive system, and organs healthy.
Questions? We're here to help.
Our appointment specialists are ready to help you find what you need. Contact us today.