Helping You Manage Your Heartburn

Heartburn is basically a burning pain you feel in the chest, just behind the breastbone. In most cases, this pain is usually worse after you eat, when bending over or lying down, or at nighttime. Occasional heartburn is actually very common and most individuals could manage their symptoms with certain lifestyle adjustments and OTC medicines.

On the other hand, heartburn that occurs more frequently or significantly interferes with daily tasks might indicate a more serious problem that warrants medical attention. With this in mind, accurate diagnosis and prompt treatment is very vital. Here at the Houston Endoscopy and Research Center in Houston, TX, Dr. Vikram Jayanty can find out what’s causing your heartburn and recommend effective treatments to address your symptoms.

Home Remedies and Lifestyle Modifications for Heartburn

  • Avoid foods that may trigger your symptoms.
  • Make sure you have a healthy weight. Excess weight place pressure on your stomach, pushes it up, and cause stomach acids to flow back into the esophagus.
  • Avoid wearing tight clothes that place pressure on the lower esophageal sphincter and stomach.
  • Avoid eating big meals and opt for smaller meals scattered throughout the day, but avoid late snacks.
  • Refrain from lying down after eating. Wait three hours or more at least.
  • Avoid alcohol and smoking. These reduce the ability of your lower esophageal sphincter to work properly.
  • Try to raise the top portion of your bed (where your head rests) when sleeping if you experience heartburn at night. You can also try placing a wedge between the box spring and mattress to raise your body right from the waist up.

Over-The-Counter Medications for Heartburn

  • Antacids: These offer quick relief and help in neutralizing stomach acids. They can’t, however, heal a damaged esophagus.
  • Proton Pump Inhibitors: These include omeprazole and lansaprazole and work by decreasing the stomach’s production of acid.
  • H2RAs or H-2-Receptor Antagonists: These also work to reduce acid production. While they don’t work as fast as antacids, they usually offer longer relief.

Visit your gastroenterologist in Houston, TX, if:

  • You experience heartburn thrice weekly or more
  • You have trouble swallowing
  • Your symptoms persist or worsen even if you use OTC meds
  • You have constant vomiting or nausea
  • You’re losing weight due to eating difficulties or poor appetite

Your doctor may prescribe stronger medications and additional testing.

Need Heartburn Relief? Contact Us.

Dial (713) 932-9200 to reach the Houston Endoscopy and Research Center in Houston, TX, and schedule your visit with Dr. Vikram Jayanty.

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