Heartburn doesn’t affect the heart, despite its name. It is a medical condition that affects many people. It is characterized by a burning sensation in the lower chest that can be pretty uncomfortable. It causes a sour or bitter taste in the throat and mouth. It can be caused by several things, including eating spicy or acidic foods, lying down after eating, or overeating. It can also be a symptom of other conditions, such as GERD or gastritis. It can be treated with over-the-counter medications, such as antacids or H2 blockers. Some people may also need to make lifestyle changes, such as avoiding trigger foods or eating smaller meals.
Symptoms of heartburn
Heartburn symptoms vary from person to person. It may be slight or extreme. Its severity depends on how much you have eaten. The main symptom is; that the acidic liquid from your food or drink in your stomach comes back into your esophagus. You may experience difficulty choking on or swallowing this acid. It may also cause immediate hoarse or cough.
Foods that may cause heartburn worse
With some minor and simple changes in your life and eating habits, you can avoid Heartburn.
- Eat at least 2 or 3 hours before you go to bed. If you want t to take naps, try a chair.
- Quit smoking
- If you are overweight, lose some pounds.
- Eat less
- Don’t wear tight clothes and a belt
- Avoid soda drinks and heavy foods
- Eat high-protein foods and low-fat meals.
Things that make heartburn worse
After overeating, Heartburn is most common. Certain foods, stress, and Pregnancy can also make it worse. Things that make it more badly are under below:
- Smoking
- Lay down after eating.
- Being overweight
- Taking medicines that treat high blood pressure and sedatives
Is it a serious condition?
If it’s now and then, you need not worry. But if you have Heartburn frequently, it can be a more severe condition and can lead to esophagitis (inflamed lining of the esophagus). The esophagus might narrow if it becomes worse. You may have difficulty swallowing and bleeding. It could mean that patient may have:
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
- Peptic ulcer
- Hiatal hernia
- An inflamed stomach lining (gastritis)
Quick Home Remedies for Heartburn
Eat a ripe banana
Ripe bananas can counteract the stomach acid irritating your esophagus. High potassium in ripens bananas makes it alkaline food which can ease Heartburn. Be careful in choosing a ripened banana because unripe bananas are less alkaline and may trigger acid reflux.
Chew sugar-free gum
More saliva production works to help reduce Heartburn. It can help promote swallowing and help keep acid down.
Do walk
Walking for 30 to 40 minutes may help to decrease heartburn sensation. It’s an effortless way to get rid of this uncomfortable condition.
Ginger tea
Ginger tea is a perfect home remedy for heartburning. It will help to digest food. Use it in a small quantity.
Baking soda
Use baking soda, not baking powder. Baking soda is inexpensive and a natural way to ease Heartburn. Take one-fourth of a tablespoon of baking soda, mix it well in a cup of water and drink it. Baking soda will help neutralize the acid. You should not use it, if you are on a low-sodium diet.
Summary
Heartburn is a common condition that can cause a burning sensation in the chest or throat. It can be painful and uncomfortable. It can also lead to other problems such as difficulty swallowing, a sour taste in the mouth, and even chest pain. It can be treated with over-the-counter medications, but severe cases may require prescription medications. Some minor changes in your life can make you more comfortable.
