Heartburn occurs when a hot sensation behind the breastbone coming on after meals, which may spread up to the back of the mouth as wind is brought up, giving a taste of acid and food. A condition in which the content of the stomach flow back into the oesophagus and cause inflammation. It occurs in most forms of indigestion.
Reflux occurs when lax muscles at the lower end of the oesophagus (food pipe) where it join the stomach. They allow acid to flow back up from the stomach. Reflux may be triggered or worsened by diet or lifestyle choices in overindulgence in food or drink and wearing tight corsets and belts. Bending down or lying flat tends to force food from the stomach backwards into the oesophagus, with consequent aggravation of symptom.
Drinking alcohol or caffeinated beverages such as coffee stimulates acid production, making the symptoms of reflux worse. Being obese may make reflux worse because of what or how much is eaten. Also, the extra weight puts pressure on the stomach. Smoking and eating certain foods (such as chocolate and peppermint) tend to weaken the sphincter muscle.
For many people with gastroesophageal reflux, lifestyle changes may be the only treatment needed. Do not wear tight clothes or corsets, and avoid bending forward. Try to bend only at knees. Eat small, frequent meals and sit upright while eating so that your oesophagus stays vertical. Take milky drinks and antacids can be bought at the pharmacy.
Doctors often recommend taking antacids at bedtime to relieve symptoms, such as heartburn and the pain due to ulcers in the esophagus. Antacids are most likely to be helpful when symptoms occur only occasionally. Antacids that are available without a prescription are often recommended.
Antacids make stomach acid less acidic (that is, they neutralize the acid). Prescribe antacids. If the symptom persists doctor will probably send you to hospital for a barium swallow X-ray to investigate the cause.
