Heartburn That Doesn T Go Away With Medicine
Heartburn is a common symptom that many people experience from time to time. It is a burning sensation in the chest that occurs when stomach acid backs up into the esophagus. This condition is called gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and can be managed with medication. However, some people may experience heartburn that doesn't go away with medicine. This can be a sign of a more serious condition and should be evaluated by a doctor.
What Causes Heartburn?
The most common cause of heartburn is GERD. This occurs when the muscle at the bottom of the esophagus, called the lower esophageal sphincter, doesn't close properly, allowing stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus. This can cause irritation and inflammation, resulting in heartburn.
Other factors that can contribute to heartburn include:
- Eating large meals or lying down after a meal
- Being overweight or obese
- Smoking
- Pregnancy
- Hiatal hernia
- Stress
- Certain medications, such as aspirin or ibuprofen
If you experience heartburn on a regular basis, it is important to talk to your doctor to determine the underlying cause and to develop a treatment plan.
What Are the Symptoms of Heartburn?
The most common symptom of heartburn is a burning sensation in the chest. This can also be accompanied by:
- A bitter or sour taste in the mouth
- Burping
- Nausea
- A feeling of fullness in the stomach
- Coughing or wheezing
If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to talk to your doctor to determine the underlying cause and to develop a treatment plan.
How Is Heartburn Treated?
The most common treatment for heartburn is medication. This includes:
- Antacids, which neutralize stomach acid
- H2 blockers, which reduce the amount of acid the stomach produces
- Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), which also reduce the amount of acid the stomach produces
In addition to medication, there are lifestyle changes that can help manage heartburn. This includes:
- Eating smaller meals
- Avoiding lying down for at least 2-3 hours after a meal
- Avoiding foods that trigger heartburn, such as spicy or fatty foods
- Losing weight if you are overweight or obese
- Stopping smoking
- Reducing stress
If you experience heartburn that doesn't go away with medication or lifestyle changes, it is important to talk to your doctor to determine the underlying cause and to develop a treatment plan.
When Should You See a Doctor?
If you experience heartburn on a regular basis, it is important to talk to your doctor to determine the underlying cause and to develop a treatment plan. You should also see a doctor if you experience any of the following symptoms:
- Chest pain
- Difficulty swallowing
- Vomiting blood
- Black, tarry stools
These symptoms may indicate a more serious condition, such as a heart attack or gastrointestinal bleeding, and require immediate medical attention.
The Bottom Line
Heartburn is a common condition that can usually be managed with medication and lifestyle changes. However, if you experience heartburn that doesn't go away with medication or lifestyle changes, it is important to talk to your doctor to determine the underlying cause and to develop a treatment plan. In addition, if you experience any symptoms that may indicate a more serious condition, such as chest pain or vomiting blood, seek immediate medical attention.