What disease does the body tell us about?
Heartburn is a burning pain in your chest, just behind your breastbone.
The pain is often worse after eating, in the evening, or when lying down or bending over.
The discomfort you feel is caused by irritation of the esophagus with stomach acid content.
Symptoms of heartburn include:
- A burning pain in the chest that usually occurs after eating and may occur at night
- Pain that worsens when lying down or bending over
- Bitter or acidic taste in the mouth
As we read in the article, infrequent heartburn is not dangerous and in such a clinical case, even changing the diet is enough to improve well-being.
Make an appointment with your doctor if:
- Heartburn occurs more than twice a week
- Symptoms persist despite use of over-the-counter medications
- You have difficulty swallowing
- You have persistent nausea or vomiting
- You have weight loss because of poor appetite or difficulty eating
Seek immediate help if you experience severe chest pain or pressure, especially when combined with other signs and symptoms such as pain in the arm or jaw or difficulty breathing. Chest pain may be a symptom of a heart attack.
The ways to prevent heartburn:
- Quit smoking
- Avoid eating at night
- Do not go to bed immediately after eating (preferably 2-3 hours before bedtime)
- You need to help the digestive system to function properly - drink water often during the day
- Chew gum after eating. Chewing gum promotes the production of saliva
- Eat healthy food
- It is advisable to avoid the following foods: spicy foods, onions, citrus fruits, tomato sauce or any products from tomatoes, fatty and fried foods, chocolate, mint;
- Limit coffee and caffeinated drinks, sugary and carbonated drinks, alcohol as much as possible;
- Manage stress
- Manage your weight
- Wear loose clothing
As you know, physical activity is good for your health.
However, before you start exercising, pay attention to the following:
- It is not recommended to exercise for at least 1 hour after eating;
- Do not eat or drink foods that cause heartburn before exercise;
- Each body is different, although sometimes strenuous physical activity significantly increases the risk of heartburn. It is better to choose the kind of physical activity that will save you from discomfort. It is advisable to ride a bike or take a walk, or give preference to swimming.
Source:
https://www.verywellhealth.com/learn-how-to-prevent-heartburn-1742854#citation-4
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/heartburn/symptoms-causes/syc-20373223
