Heart Burn FAQs

Sometimes after eating a wonderful meal, you may be left with a burning sensation in your chest (more specifically behind the breastbone), presumably worsening after opting to lay down. This discomfort is often referred to as heartburn, and Dr. Vikram Jayanty with the Houston Endoscopy and Research Center in Houston, TX, hopes to answer some of the questions you may have regarding heartburn.

What Is Heartburn?

Your stomach generates acid to assist your digestive tract in breaking down any food you consume—this acid is only meant to inhabit your stomach. But this is where the burning sensation comes from: the acid surges upward, back to the esophagus (your throat), causing the feeling of heartburn.

Why Am I Experiencing Heartburn?

There are a few different causes for feeling heartburn, but it's often linked to certain foods or habits related to eating. Heartburn can be a result of:

• eating foods that are heavy in grease, spices, or fat
• consuming caffeine
• eating a large meal before bed
• having a meal before exercising
• drinking alcohol
• smoking tobacco
• drinking carbonated beverages
• taking specific medication (for example, medication for your blood pressure)

If mealtimes are causing you more dread than enjoyment as a result of heartburn, the symptoms above may be a source of your discomfort.

Is There A Way To Treat Heartburn?

Generally, antacids can be taken to relieve discomfort from heartburn, however, it's important to recognize the number of occurrences you're having with heartburn. Consider a visit with your Houston, TX, gastroenterologist, Dr. Jayanty, with indicators of worsening heartburn that may include:

• experiencing heartburn three times in a single week
• symptoms continue or intensify
• persistent nausea or vomiting
• difficulty swallowing
• weight loss as a result of trouble eating or lack of appetite

Relieving Your Heartburn

In cases of persistent heartburn, you may require comprehensive testing and over-the-counter medication. If your heartburn is causing you concern, schedule a visit with Dr. Jayanty of the Houston Endoscopy and Research Center in Houston, TX, by calling (713) 932-9200.