Coping With Persistent Heartburn
Constant heartburn could be reflective of a more serious condition and if you are experiencing heartburn on a regular basis then don’t ignore the symptoms.
In a nutshell, heartburn occurs following stomach acid traveling back into the esophagus leaving a person feeling everything from nausea to a bitter taste in the mouth. For many, this is not a regular occurrence but for others, it’s common and it’s known as persistent heartburn.
Symptoms Of Persistent Heartburn
Persistent heartburn means you are experiencing symptoms at least twice week and means something more sinister could be at play. Heartburn is a symptom of GERD and other tell tale signs include:
- difficulty swallowing
- food traveling back into the mouth after swallowing
- burning chest pain
- coughing and sore throat
Obviously seeking medical advice is the best alternative because unchecked, more serious complications could arise. Acid rising back into the esophageal can lead to serious damage overtime. Constant heartburn not treated could result in ulcers in the esophageal or stricture which means the esophageal narrows over time. Worst case scenario may be developing Barrett’s esophagus which in turn could result to esophageal cancer.
Treatment For Persistent Heartburn
Your doctor will evaluate your condition and make the necessary recommendations. For example, medications can be effective in relieving and treating symptoms and combined with some lifestyle changes, symptoms can usually be kept at bay. Lifestyle changes means identifying the triggers associated with an attack and avoiding them.
A shortlist of triggers will include certain types of foods such as acidic fruits, chocolate and spicy foods, coffee, smoking, tight clothing and being overweight. Lifestyle change means making adjustments in these areas and this is something you need to identify every time you experience the symptoms of heartburn and report to your doctor.
Choosing the right medication when you have persistent heartburn should be something left to your doctor to decide. Problem with self-medicating is every sufferer has different triggers which set off an episode and your doctor can save you a lot of trial and error by prescribing you the appropriate medication from the beginning.
Other Treatments
Many persistent heartburn sufferers report relief from natural herb teas such as chamomile which can provide a soothing process on the stomach. Ginger is used in Asian cultures to provide similar relief and also relieves to an extent, that nauseas feeling.Ginger contains anti-inflammatory qualities which can aide in soothing irritation in the lining of the stomach.
Discuss these options with your doctor as they may be helpful assists to any medication which may be prescribed.
Related posts:
- Understanding The Causes For Heartburn
- Chronic Heartburn – Symptoms And Treatment Options For Chronic Heartburn
- Constant Heartburn – How To Recognize And Control It
- Frequent Heartburn – Why Regular Heartburn Will Disrupt Your Quality Of Life
- Heartburn Diet – Heartburn Causing Foods To Avoid
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