Dr Bryan Betty: Heartburn

What is it? 

Burning sensation in the lower chest.
Sometimes with a sour/bitter taste in mouth - often after big meal or lying
Very mild to severe.
Can cause you to cough or your voice to become hoarse.
Lasts minutes or sometimes hours.

What causes it? 

Stomach full of acid to digest food.
Valve at top of stomach – may be weak and not fully
The acid in the stomach escapes into oesophagus (tube from the mouth to stomach) and causes a burning sensation. 

Can things make it worse? 

Yes - smoking, alcohol, coffee, citrus fruits which are acidic, tomato, chocolate, spicy foods - the list goes on!
Lying down after eating, being overweight, and some medicines.

How do you diagnose and treat it? 

Often a careful history will give you the answer.
Can be serious sometimes and need further investigation: endoscope -  camera in into the stomach to look for ulcers or ‘burning’ oesophagus.
Sometimes do a test for a bacteria pylori which can make it worse
Treat with ‘antacids’ which neutralise acid, or medication which stops acid in the  stomach, or if we have the bacteria, antibiotics.
Can help prevent: being careful what you eat, not eating big meals before bed, losing weight, stop smoking, reduce alcohol.
If have symptoms see your doctor!

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