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Heartburn refers to the symptom that makes you feel a burning sensation in your chest. This is also a known symptom of a condition called gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Medical experts say that this is common among pregnant women and people who consume specific food or drink certain beverages before bedtime.
Because many people suffer from this condition, different kinds of heartburn relief are also very much in demand. If you are still wondering whether or not you have GERD, here are some of its common symptoms:
- Persistent laryngitis and hoarseness
- Regurgitation of liquids or solids with accompanying acidic taste in the throat
- Persistent sore throat
- Burning sensation in the upper abdomen or stomach pain
- Chronic cough
- Difficulty in swallowing
How do you differentiate heartburn from a heart attack?
These two medical conditions have almost the same symptoms, including vomiting, nausea, shortness of breath, and chest pain.
Fortunately, some unique symptoms can differentiate heart attack from heartburn, and these include headache, toothache, and dizziness. On the other hand, if you experience reflux laryngitis, hoarseness, and persistent sore throat without the unique heart attack symptoms mentioned above, chances are, you are only suffering from heartburn.
How can you relieve yourself from the symptoms of heartburn?
As you already know, heartburn is a burning sensation in the chest caused by stomach acid backing up into one’s food pipe. It can also be worsened or caused by always lying on one’s right side or lying flat. With these facts, it is safe to assume that one of the best ways to prevent heartburn is to avoid lying on one side or lying flat. For pregnant women, it is best to consult with your doctor for medical advice or prescription for heartburn relief.
The number of over-the-counter (OTC) medications is as many as the people experiencing such a condition. Enzymedica is one of the best medicines that can provide quick relief for heartburn. Aside from that, there are also several home remedies you can try by yourself.
In a massive number of cases, those suffering from heartburn don’t need to seek the help of medical professionals. However, if your symptoms would not improve after taking OTC medication and trying home remedies, you should immediately visit your doctor.
Lifestyle changes to get rid of your heartburn symptoms
According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Kidney Diseases, approximately 20 percent of the entire US population suffers from GERD. This condition is also common among obese or overweight individuals, smokers, and those who are regularly exposed to second-hand smokers.
Aside from taking GERD medications, a change in one’s lifestyle is in order to get rid of heartburn totally. These are some tips that you can follow:
- Lose extra weight and keep your ideal weight: The excess weight your body carries can increase the pressure imposed on your stomach, quickly increasing the probability of having acid reflux straight into your esophagus.
- Ditch smoking: Smoking can disrupt the functioning of your lower esophageal sphincter.
- Change your diet: Avoid food and drinks that can trigger heartburn and choose to eat healthier foods, too. While you are doing it, keep a food journal to help you point out what kinds of food and drinks can exacerbate your heartburn.
Acid reflux, GERD, and heartburn may be common, but it does not mean that it cannot be beaten. With the right medication and lifestyle change, you can say goodbye to this annoying and sometimes debilitating condition.
