Heartburn Can Be a Pain in the Butt

Heartburn is a common symptom caused by stomach acid backing up into the esophagus. It is also identified as one of the causes of asthma and chronic cough. Even though heartburn is common, it is rarely life threatening. It is an unpleasant burning sensation under the breastbone that usually occurs after a meal. But a recent Gallup poll concluded that nighttime heartburn is also quite common. Although the pain of heartburn is felt in the chest, heartburn has nothing to do with your heart.

My heartburn is caused by a backup of stomach acid into my esophagus. Heartburn is a recognized medical condition – or at least some types of it are. If heartburn is a continual or severe problem, it is a good idea to see your doctor. Clinical studies add further support to the concept that functional heartburn is not just a misdiagnosed GERD but rather a distinct entity. It is quite common, and an occasional episode is generally nothing to worry about. You may not know that chronic heartburn is linked to esophageal cancer and you may be surprised to learn that a major cause of heartburn is smoking.

Occasional acid indigestion symptoms or heartburn is common in most people. These symptoms can sometimes last up to 2 hours or longer. Wheezing or other asthma-like symptoms are appearing in adulthood. While these are the main symptoms of heartburn not all GERD symptoms will be the same and the disease may be present even without apparent symptoms.

Listen in as doctors explain the symptoms of heartburn, when you can safely self-medicate, and what warning signs require medical evaluation. An estimated 7 percent to 10 percent of the adult population in the United States experience symptoms of GERD every day. One should consult a physician for persistent symptoms. The burning and pressure symptoms of heartburn can last for several hours and are often worsen after eating. Remember that if you experience the symptoms you are not alone. The symptoms of heartburn are very common and in most cases, over the counter treatments and lifestyle changes are sufficient for providing relief.

Home treatment, such as lifestyle changes and nonprescription medicines, may be all that is needed to treat mild to moderate heartburn. Zanprol Tablets are a short course of 2 to 4 weeks of treatment that can stop recurrent heartburn for weeks at a time. New minimally invasive treatment for reflux stops heartburn. Natural herbal indigestion remedy and acid reflux treatment for natural acid reflux gives relief. The two most commonly used drugs for treatment of heartburn are H2-receptor antagonists (H2RAs) and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). NEXIUM is for the treatment of frequent and persistent heartburn symptoms. But, prevention and treatment of heartburn starts with lifestyle changes.

However, heartburn is a medical condition with biological causes and it is an unpleasant burning sensation under the breastbone. It is also much more than an annoyance and you should treat it. Fortunately, it is usually very simple to treat and even to avoid. It is a more common problem in the world today and although it is not a condition itself – it is a symptom and a pain in the butt, especially at night when it can keep you from sleeping.

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Natural Remedies for Heartburn

Although there are many over the counter and prescription medicines available for heartburn relief, natural remedies for heartburn may be just as effective and cause fewer side effects. Most people experience heartburn occasionally, even those who have a healthy diet and stress-free lifestyle.

Prescription medicines for heartburn are designed for those who experience symptoms several times per week. They are taken daily to prevent or reduce the frequency of heartburn symptoms. Most prescription medicines for heartburn have some undesirable side effects including constipation and/or diarrhea. Some of the common prescription medicines for heartburn are Prevacid, Protonix and Prilosec, but there are many others.

Over the counter medicines for heartburn are usually antacids and should not be taken by anyone who is allergic to antacids. It is always recommended to be aware of active ingredients in over the counter medicines for heartburn or natural remedies for heartburn. People who have allergies should check with their allergy specialist before using new products.

Antacids are designed to reduce the amount of acid in the stomach, thus reducing the heartburn symptoms. Heartburn symptoms occur when stomach acid backs up into the esophagus causing a burning sensation in the chest, stomach or back of the throat. Natural remedies for heartburn and over the counter medicines for heartburn, if effective, will reduce the acid, soothe the throat and relieve the burning sensation.

Natural remedies for heartburn include fennel and peppermint, however, some doctors advise against peppermint, saying it brings on heartburn in some people. Fennel seeds can be seeped in water to create a soothing tea. Fennel is an ingredient in many products sold by companies that sell natural remedies for heartburn and other conditions. Peppermint oil listed is an ingredient in some over the counter medicines for heartburn and indigestion. Fennel seeds and peppermint have been used by Native Americans and Europeans as natural remedies for heartburn.

Rhubarb is one of the natural remedies for heartburn and indigestion used by Native Americans. Rhubarb grows wild and is available in some grocery stores. It is similar in appearance to celery, but is reddish in color.

Overeating, spicy foods, caffeinated beverages, alcohol and even stress can lead to symptoms of heartburn. It is not always possible to avoid them all. There are many natural remedies for heartburn and many over the counter medicines for heartburn relief. Chronic heartburn symptoms should not be ignored and should be evaluated by a physician, as they can indicate more serious medical conditions and acid in the esophagus can lead to erosion of the esophagus. For more information about heartburn, visit www.digestive-disorders-guide.com.

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