How to Win the War Against Heartburn

Heartburn (acid indigestion or pyrosis) is a common gastrointestinal complaint. It is caused by elevated levels of stomach acid flowing into the esophagus. The result is a painful, burning sensation in the chest or throat. The pain worsens when you bend, lie down or lift heavy objects.

Causes of Heartburn
There are many causes of heartburn, including aging. As we grow older, the muscular contractions (peristalsis) of the esophagus (food pipe) slow down. This causes the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), a circular band of muscle that keeps stomach acids in place, to become less effective.

Over-eating elevates your stomach acid level and causes it to flow upwards into the esophagus. If stomach acids are not removed and are in prolonged contact with the esophagus, they will irritate and eventually damage it. Overweight people and pregnant women, who have increased pressure on their abdomens, are also prone to heartburn. Smokers are also at risk because nicotine relaxes the LES.

Heartburn can also be triggered by certain foods, alcohol and some medications. Some men with a condition called hiatal hernias have their stomachs positioned above their diaphragm. This weakens the LES and makes them more susceptible to heartburn. If you have heartburn more than twice a week, you may be suffering from gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a condition where the LES does not close tightly enough. This causes stomach acids and food to flow back into the esophagus, thus triggering heartburn.

Treating Heartburn
There is no cure for heartburn, but there are quick, temporary pain relievers like antacids, which contain substances to neutralize stomach acids. Antacids are safe and effective, but do not heal the inflammation of the esophagus caused by stomach acids. Overuse of some antacids can cause side effects, including diarrhea or constipation. They can also interfere with other medications you are taking.

Some antacid products also contain sodium alginate. Alginate-containing antacids form a 'rafts' that floats on the surface of the stomach contents to reduce reflux and protect the esophageal mucosa. Products containing alginates are particularly useful for heartburn caused by pressure on the stomach, such as during pregnancy. They are available in both tablet and liquid forms.

If you experience regular heartburn, it is advisable that you consult a doctor as you may need prescription medicines or surgery to solve the problem. Note that some prescription medicines can impede the absorption of vitamins and calcium, and interfere with digestion and stomach secretions. Speak to your pharmacist today about the treatments available for heartburn.