1. My Heart Is on Fire
Heartburn is the feeling that there is a fire burning inside of your chest cavity. The most common causes are certain foods high in fat, grease or spices. However, chronic heartburn isn't limited to diet. Other causes include gastroesophageal reflux (GERD), ulcers or hiatal hernias (a condition where the esophagus is protruding through the stomach). No matter why the heartburn occurs, it is painful and very uncomfortable. Some people have it constantly. These people have chronic heartburn.
2. Do a Heartburn Diet
Sometimes you can control chronic heartburn with a simple change in your diet. To begin, avoid foods that are high in fat. This includes fast foods, soda pop and most junk foods. Try to eat more healthy foods such as fruits and vegetables and drink a lot of water. Breads and pastas are also good for controlling heartburn. Stay away from fried foods. It is better to eat grilled or baked meats. Above all, definitely stay away from spicy foods. Spicy foods are the worst for anyone with chronic heartburn.
3. More Than Just Bad Habits
Heart burn is normally caused by many different things such as a bad diet; however, chronic heart burn is the result of a more serious problem such as an ulcer or a hernia. When there is an ulcer (which is a tear or hole in the lining of the stomach) or a hernia (the protrusion of one organ into another), chronic heartburn can occur. The only way to treat heartburn that is caused by an ulcer or a hernia is to see a doctor. Surgery is usually recommended for severe cases to fix the ulcer or repair the hernia.
4. Ease the Burn With Meds
Doctors may prescribe medication to control or treat your chronic heartburn. These medications, scientifically known as Preston Pump Prohibitors (PPIs), prevent the release of acid in the stomach and in the intestines. Many times, people with ulcers receive this type of medication to treat chronic heartburn. PPIs are also effective in treating acid reflux.
5. Surgical Options Are Available
Sometimes, surgery is required to treat chronic heartburn. The most common surgery used to treat GERD is fundoplication. During this surgery, the surgeon wraps the upper part of the patient's stomach around the lower part of the esophagus. This strengthens the valve between the esophagus and the stomach and prevents acid reflux. This surgery is usually very successful in the treatment of chronic heartburn.
