Heartburn That Won T Go Away With Medicine
If you have ever experienced heartburn, you know how uncomfortable it can be. It is a burning sensation that starts in the chest and can spread to the throat, neck, and jaw. Heartburn is usually caused by acid reflux, which occurs when the stomach acid flows back into the esophagus. If you have heartburn that won’t go away with medicine, it could be a sign of a more serious condition. In this article, we will discuss the causes, symptoms, and treatment of heartburn that won’t go away with medicine.
Causes of Heartburn That Won’t Go Away With Medicine
Heartburn that won’t go away with medicine is usually caused by gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). GERD is a chronic condition that occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) doesn’t close properly, allowing stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus. Other causes of heartburn that won’t go away with medicine include:
- Hiatal hernia
- Obesity
- Pregnancy
- Smoking
- Certain medications
- Eating large meals or lying down after eating
Symptoms of Heartburn That Won’t Go Away With Medicine
The symptoms of heartburn that won’t go away with medicine are similar to those of ordinary heartburn, but they last longer and are more severe. The most common symptoms include:
- Burning sensation in the chest, throat, neck, and jaw
- Sour or bitter taste in the mouth
- Nausea
- Bloating
- Belching
- Coughing
- Wheezing
- Hoarseness
- Sore throat
- Difficulty swallowing
Treatment of Heartburn That Won’t Go Away With Medicine
The treatment for heartburn that won’t go away with medicine depends on the underlying cause. If you have GERD, your doctor may prescribe stronger medications such as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) or H2 blockers. Lifestyle changes such as losing weight, quitting smoking, avoiding trigger foods, and eating smaller meals can also help. Other treatments for heartburn that won’t go away with medicine include:
- Surgery to tighten the LES
- Endoscopic procedures to repair the LES
- Radiofrequency therapy to strengthen the LES
If you have heartburn that won’t go away with medicine, it is important to see a doctor. Untreated GERD can lead to serious complications such as esophageal ulcers, strictures, and Barrett’s esophagus.
Conclusion
Heartburn that won’t go away with medicine is usually caused by GERD, a chronic condition that occurs when the LES doesn’t close properly. Other causes include obesity, pregnancy, smoking, and certain medications. The symptoms are similar to ordinary heartburn but last longer and are more severe. Treatment depends on the underlying cause and may include medication, lifestyle changes, and surgery. If you have heartburn that won’t go away with medicine, see a doctor to prevent serious complications.