What Causes Heartburn?

What your gastroenterologist in Houston wants you to know about heartburn

Most people have felt heartburn occasionally after eating spicy or acidic foods, but if you are feeling heartburn heartburnfrequently and it doesn’t go away, it could be a symptom of something more serious. Dr. Vikram Jayanty, your gastroenterologist in Houston, TX, wants to share his knowledge with you about what may be causing your heartburn.

You will know you have heartburn if you experience a burning pain in your chest after you eat. Heartburn pain also happens frequently at night. The pain can become worse when you bend over or lie down.

The most common cause of heartburn is a condition called gastro-esophageal reflux disease or GERD. Heartburn is caused when the sphincter muscle that protects your esophagus weakens or fails and acidic stomach contents travel back up through your esophagus, causing heartburn.

There are some simple tips you can try to help prevent heartburn, including:

  • Eat smaller meals several times each day
  • Avoid eating late at night
  • Avoid lying down after eating
  • Avoid spicy or acidic foods
  • Maintain a healthy weight
  • Stop smoking
  • Try over-the-counter antacids

It is estimated over 60 million Americans suffer from heartburn at least once a month, and 15 million Americans feel heartburn daily, according to the American College of Gastroenterology. If you suffer from heartburn more than twice a week, or you don’t get relief from simple home therapies, you should schedule an appointment. You should also visit your gastroenterologist if you experience:

  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Weight loss from lack of appetite
  • Chest or abdominal pain
  • Throat problems or bad breath
  • Wheezing or dry coughing
  • Tooth enamel erosion

Don’t suffer from chronic heartburn, because it could be a symptom of a more serious condition. Getting treatment early could mean the difference between a healthy esophagus and esophageal damage. Help is just a phone call away from Dr. Jayanty, your gastroenterologist in Houston, TX. Call today and get some relief from your heartburn!

Our Location