KMIR 6 - Palm Springs News, Weather, SportsWhat is heartburn and how is it treated?

What is it?

Heartburn is a common symptom and is usually nothing to worry about when it happens only on occasion.

Normally, the digestive acids in your stomach remain there until they pass downward into your intestines. But when the valve at the top of your stomach (called the lower esophageal sphincter, or LES) doesn't close properly, the acids can back up (reflux) into the esophagus. That's the tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach.

Unlike the stomach lining, the esophagus is not protected from the corrosive effects of stomach acid. When refluxed acid touches the lining of the esophagus, it causes a burning sensation in the chest or throat. This is what we call heartburn. The fluid may even be tasted in the back of the mouth, and this is called acid indigestion.

Heartburn that occurs more than twice a week may be gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Chronic GERD can lead to more serious health problems. See a doctor if you have frequent heartburn.

How bad is it?

Over time, exposure to stomach acid can cause scarring and narrowing of the esophagus. In rare cases it causes a condition called Barrett's esophagus. This condition is linked to an increased risk of cancer of the esophagus. If you are diagnosed with Barrett's esophagus, you will need regular exams to screen for cancer.

What are the symptoms?

Symptoms of heartburn may include any of the following:

• An acid taste in the back of the throat or mouth
• Burping, belching or passing gas
• Bloating in the abdomen
• Burning in the upper stomach after eating
• Feeling very full or filling up too quickly

But heartburn may also be confused with symptoms of heart attack or heart disease. If you have any chest pain or discomfort - especially if it feels like pressure, heaviness or squeezing of your chest - it could be a heart attack. You may also have fatigue, shortness of breath, sweating or pain that spreads to your arm, jaw or back. Get emergency medical help if you have any of these symptoms.

What can I do about heartburn?

Simple measures often bring relief from heartburn:

• Eat less at each meal.
• Remain upright for an hour or two after eating.
• Eliminate foods and other things that trigger heartburn, such as spicy, acidic or fatty foods, chocolate, peppermint, caffeine, alcohol and cigarettes.
• Quit smoking and lose weight. If you are overweight, weight loss can help decrease heartburn.

What can I take to relieve heartburn?

• Antacids. These medications neutralize stomach acids and can offer quick relief. They usually work well for occasional heartburn. But taking too many antacids can cause diarrhea or constipation.
• Acid reducers. These medications can take 30 minutes or more to work. They can be bought over-the-counter or may be prescribed in a stronger dose.
• Protein pump inhibitors. These medicines block acid production and are usually very effective.

The bottom line is that persistent, recurrent or severe symptoms require medical evaluation.

Surgery called fundoplication may be done to relieve some types of chronic heartburn if medications have failed. This involves tightening the valve between the esophagus and the stomach. But choose an experienced surgeon. Complications may include trouble swallowing, diarrhea and pain. Check the American Board of Medical Specialties Web site to make sure your doctor is board-certified. And ask your doctor how often she or he has performed this surgery.