Heartburn is a common condition that many people experience at some point in their lives. However, in some cases, heartburn can become chronic rather than temporary. This condition, known as persistent heartburn, can cause serious discomfort and a significant decrease in quality of life.
What is Persistent Heartburn ?
Persistent heartburn is a long-term condition that occurs as a result of stomach acid refluxing into the esophagus. This condition is characterized by stomach acid irritating the esophagus and often presents with symptoms such as a burning sensation, indigestion and sour taste. These symptoms can become chronic over time and negatively affect quality of life.
Causes of Persistent Heartburn
There are several possible causes of persistent heartburn. Among them:
1. Acid Reflux
Backflow of stomach contents into the esophagus can irritate the esophagus and cause heartburn.
2. Hiatal Hernia
Hiatal hernia can cause stomach contents to leak back into the esophagus if the diaphragm surrounding the stomach is weak.
3. Obesity
Being overweight can increase the risk of heartburn because it can increase stomach pressure.
4. Pregnancy
Hormonal changes and increased stomach pressure during pregnancy can cause heartburn.
5. Smoking
Smoking can increase the production of stomach acid and trigger heartburn.
6. Some Medications
Some medications can have side effects that can cause heartburn.
Risk factors
There are some factors that increase the risk of persistent heartburn. Among them:
To smoke
alcohol consumption
High fat and spicy foods
Stress and anxiety
Obesity
Pregnancy
Diagnosis
To diagnose persistent heartburn, your doctor will usually follow these steps:
Evaluating your medical history
Physical examination
Additional tests, such as blood tests or imaging tests, if necessary
Treatment Options
There are various treatment options for persistent heartburn. Among them:
Lifestyle Changes: Lifestyle changes such as adjusting your diet, changing your eating habits, and losing weight can reduce heartburn.
Non-Prescription Medications: Over-the-counter medications such as antacids or H2 blockers can relieve heartburn.
Prescription Medications: Medications prescribed by your doctor, such as proton pump inhibitors, can reduce stomach acid and prevent burning sensations.
Surgery: In rare cases, surgical intervention may be required to treat persistent heartburn.
Home Remedies
There are some home remedies to relieve heartburn:
Dietary Changes: Avoiding acidic and spicy foods can reduce heartburn.
Herbal Remedies: Herbal teas such as ginger or chamomile can relieve heartburn.
Stress Management Techniques: Stress management techniques such as yoga, meditation or deep breathing exercises can reduce heartburn.
Prevention
Here are some ways to prevent persistent heartburn:
A healthy diet and regular exercise
Limiting alcohol consumption
not smoking
avoiding stress
When to See a Doctor?
If heartburn symptoms persist or become severe, it is important to see a doctor. Additionally, persistent heartburn can lead to some serious complications, so it is important to seek help from a specialist doctor.
Living with Persistent Heartburn
Living with persistent heartburn is fraught with challenges, but it is possible to manage the symptoms with appropriate treatment and lifestyle changes. It is also important to get help from support groups or experts.
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